A review of MVDC smart grids technologies and components

The Medium Voltage DC (MVDC) distribution systems represent an innovative solution to fulfill the rapid growth of the energy demand and enabling the integration of an increasingly amount of Distributed Energy resources (DERs) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS) in the electric power system. The high-power supply capability of these systems, as well as the great flexibility and controllability, make them potentially capable of facing up some issues affecting the normal operation of the current AC distribution network. This paper aims to provide a review of MVDC grids, with the specific purpose to show both potential and weakness of these systems. DC rating voltage levels, grid architectures, main components and technologies required for development of these systems are analyzed. The protection of MVDC grids under DC fault conditions is also investigated, in order to outline any form of improvement.