Researchers from Purdue University, led by Aaron H. P. Farha and Kevin J. Kircher, have been exploring ways to improve energy efficiency in residential buildings by integrating direct current (DC) devices more effectively. Their recent study, published in the journal Applied Energy, investigates the potential of using DC distribution systems to connect large DC devices, such as solar photovoltaics, electric vehicles, and heat pumps, which are currently connected through alternating current (AC) systems, leading to energy losses during conversions.
The researchers conducted laboratory and field experiments to determine if an off-the-shelf residential heat pump, typically designed for AC systems, could be powered directly by DC with minimal hardware modifications and performance changes. Their findings suggest that this is indeed possible, paving the way for more efficient energy distribution in homes.
The study also involved simulations of a DC nanogrid, which included a solar photovoltaic array, a stationary battery, and historical data on heat pump and household load measurements. The simulations indicated that connecting these devices through a DC distribution system could lead to significant savings on annual electricity bills. Specifically, the researchers found that an after-market AC-to-DC heat pump retrofit could decrease electricity bills by 12.5%, while a heat pump designed to run on DC could reduce bills by 16.7%.
For the energy sector, this research highlights the potential benefits of integrating DC devices more efficiently within residential buildings. By reducing energy losses from AC to DC conversions, homeowners could see substantial savings on their electricity bills. Additionally, this approach could help to optimize the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, by allowing for more direct and efficient energy distribution. As the adoption of DC devices continues to grow, further research and development in this area could lead to even greater improvements in energy efficiency and cost savings for consumers.
The research was published in the journal Applied Energy, providing a valuable contribution to the ongoing efforts to enhance energy efficiency in residential settings.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.