Established at Pangyo HD Hyundai Global R&D Center
Energy Efficiency Expected to Improve by Over 10% Annually
HD Hyundai Electric, a subsidiary of HD Hyundai specializing in power equipment and energy solutions, has succeeded in commercializing the world's first 1MW-class DC distribution system for buildings.
On the 7th, HD Hyundai Electric held a ceremony at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center (hereinafter GRC) in Bundang-gu, Gyeonggi-do, to commemorate the start of commercial operation of the 1MW-class DC power supply system jointly developed with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).
DC distribution is a method of supplying large-capacity DC power, converted with high efficiency from AC power, directly to multiple DC loads. Although the initial investment cost is higher compared to AC distribution, it is attracting attention as the next-generation distribution method due to its high energy efficiency and ease of grid integration.
This is the world's first application of a 1MW-class large-capacity DC distribution system in commercial buildings in urban areas. The significance lies in commercializing a technology that had previously remained at the demonstration stage.
It is expected to improve energy efficiency by more than 10% annually compared to AC power supply methods. Currently, DC loads within the GRC include LED lighting, heating and cooling systems, electric vehicle fast charging stations, and research and development (R&D) facilities.
On the 8th, an aerial view of the courtyard at HD Hyundai Global R&D Center (GRC) in Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi Province. [Photo by HD Hyundai]
According to the US market research firm ReportLinker, the global DC distribution network market is expected to grow from $14.1 billion in 2020 to $23.6 billion by 2027, nearly doubling in size. Recently, the government also announced plans to establish a hybrid AC-DC distribution network by 2030, emphasizing the importance of developing DC distribution network technology as a future power grid.
Since 2020, the two companies have developed key power equipment such as DC distribution converters, switchboards, and cables. Alongside this, they have achieved research outcomes including ▲design and construction of building distribution systems and protective relays ▲development of integrated DC distribution management systems ▲certified performance and long-term operational reliability verification of DC distribution converters.
An HD Hyundai Electric official stated, “As demand for DC power sources and load devices such as renewable energy generation, ESS, and electric vehicles increases, we will continue to work closely with KEPCO to contribute to the advancement of DC distribution technology in the domestic market.”
Meanwhile, on the same day, HD Hyundai Electric and KEPCO signed a memorandum of understanding to expand domestic and international business for DC power supply services and agreed to collaborate on expanding DC power supply to public and private sector sites.
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