PULSE Building, Delft University
Current/OS Partners Involved:
DC Systems
Location
Delft, The Netherlands
Setup
2024
Context
Located on the TU Delft campus, Pulse is the first energy-neutral university building in the Netherlands. The installed 350V DC system enables solar energy generated on-site to be used directly, minimizing energy losses. This innovative approach powers laptops, tablets, smartphones, lighting, and emergency systems, making the building a model for sustainable academic infrastructure. Beyond energy efficiency, the DC grid also reduces material usage, such as heavy transformers, and facilitates the transition to smart grids by seamlessly linking generators and users of electricity in the future.
Implementation
• 350V DC grid developed and supplied by Direct Current B.V.
• 490 solar panels (750 m²) providing direct DC power
• USB-C 100W connectors for computers and mobile devices
• 350V LED drivers for energy-efficient lighting
• 150kW AC/DC network station with 3 Active Front End (AFE) converters
• Current Router technology integrated with Current/OS on 350V LVDC for safety and efficiency
Benefits
• Minimal energy loss: Direct use of solar-generated DC power eliminates unnecessary conversions
• Lower material usage: Reduces reliance on heavy transformers and additional conversion components
• Smart grid integration: The building is designed to seamlessly interact with future decentralized energy networks
• Optimized energy management: Intelligent ventilation, lighting, and heating reduce overall energy consumption
• Sustainability in design: Maximized daylight use decreases the need for artificial lighting
Quote
“The Pulse Building at TU Delft showcases the future of sustainable university infrastructure. By integrating a secure 350V DC smart grid, we have significantly reduced energy waste while creating an efficient and scalable model for campuses worldwide.”
Prof. dr. ir. Andy van den Dobbelsteen, Professor of Climate Design & Sustainability, TU Delft
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Current/OS is defining standards for DC Microgrids. As a nonprofit, open partnership of electricity stakeholders and manufacturers, we are committed to researching and developing Direct Current (DC) power distribution for tertiary buildings and installations.
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