Mitsubishi Electric to Build DC Development and Demonstration Facility at Power Distribution System Center in Marugame, Japan

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced today that it plans to build a development and demonstration facility for middle-voltage direct current (MVDC*) distribution at its Power Distribution System Center in Marugame, Japan, with operations scheduled to start in April 2016. MVDC distribution reduces electricity loss at delivery, making related technologies increasingly attractive for businesses looking to mitigate environmental impact.

Environmentally conscious distribution systems that combine renewable energy such as solar and wind with an electrical accumulator are growing in popularity. These systems generate DC electricity and then convert it to AC for general use. However, communication devices and digital devices in general have to convert it back to DC. Energy loss will occur when electricity is being converted between AC and DC. MVDC distribution eliminates the DC conversion issue and reduces energy loss, enabling facilities to cut costs by using thinner power cables or transmitting electric power longer distances. This has prompted a reevaluation of DC technology, and Mitsubishi Electric aims to meet the needs of this new DC ecosystem by leveraging their existing DC technologies such as their distribution board for data center energy conservation and their high speed circuit for railway lines. At the same time, the company will use this new facility to develop next-generation MVDC technologies and communicate their value to consumers.