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DC grids in industry: Why it's worth taking a closer look now
25.07.2025
The industry is facing an exciting change in its energy supply. While alternating current (AC) has formed the backbone of our power grids for over 100 years, an alternative is increasingly coming into focus: direct current (DC) grids. What was long considered a niche technology is now developing into a real topic for the future - with tangible benefits for efficiency, sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
What makes DC so interesting?
Many industrial devices - from LED lights and robots to IT systems - already work internally with direct current. In classic AC grids, the current therefore has to be converted several times, which causes energy losses. DC grids largely bypass these conversions and therefore enable significantly more efficient energy distribution.
Another advantage: material savings. Due to the higher voltage and the elimination of a phase, up to 50% copper can be saved in DC systems - an advantage that should not be underestimated in view of rising raw material prices.
Initial applications show the potential
Whether in automated high-bay warehouses, robot control or charging parks for electric vehicles - DC grids are already showing what they can do. Particularly exciting: the possibility of recuperation, i.e. the recovery of braking energy, which can be made directly available to other consumers in the grid.
The future with a system
With the new VDE standard SPEC 90037 and the growing availability of DC-compatible components, it is becoming increasingly easy to get started with this technology. Especially for new buildings or modernizations, it is worth taking a look at DC - not only from a technical point of view, but also as a strategic investment in a sustainable energy infrastructure.
Conclusion: DC grids are more than just a trend - they are a real opportunity for the industry. Those who get to grips with the technology at an early stage can not only save energy and resources, but also tap into innovation potential for their own products and processes.
The full trend report highlights further application examples, technical challenges and market opportunities.
Find out more now and play an active role in shaping change!
