Direct Current (DC)

Definition: An electric current that flows in one direction, typically produced by sources such as batteries and solar panels.

Relevance to energy: Many renewable energy sources and energy storage systems produce or use DC, requiring conversion for use with AC appliances or the grid.

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Benefits:

• More efficient for many electronic devices
• Easier to store in batteries
• Produced directly by solar panels and fuel cells

Drawbacks:

• Not directly compatible with most household appliances
• Voltage drops over long distances
• Requires conversion for use with the AC grid

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Statistics: According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, DC-powered appliances can be 25-50% more efficient than their AC counterparts.