DC technology plays a key role in the modern energy landscape. Whether photovoltaics, battery storage systems or charging stations, DEHN has been dealing with the protection of DC systems for a long time. DEHN’s involvement in the Open Direct Current Alliance therefore marks a further milestone in the lightning and surge protection specialist’s endeavour to shape the future of the electrical industry with innovative and sustainable solutions. DEHN has already successfully participated in the DC-INDUSTRIE research project, which investigated the advantages and potential of DC technologies in industrial applications.
‘Our membership of the Open DC Alliance once again symbolises our commitment to promoting sustainable and innovative energy solutions,’ said Christian Höhler, CTO of DEHN SE. ‘We look forward to being at the forefront of DC technology, alongside other industry leaders, and actively shaping the future of energy supply.’
The Open DC Alliance is a leading consortium dedicated to promoting and standardising DC technologies. As a member of the Alliance, DEHN can contribute to the development and implementation of future-oriented DC solutions that improve the efficiency and environmental impact of the energy supply. DC technologies offer significant environmental benefits. They reduce energy losses and increase energy efficiency which, in turn, reduces CO₂ emissions and allows a more sustainable use of resources.
Renewable energies, like photovoltaic systems, and storage systems, such as fuel cells, can be integrated much more efficiently into a DC grid. That is why direct current is an essential component for the success of the energy transition. The two DC INDUSTRIE research projects reveal that energy consumption in existing systems can be reduced by up to ten per cent. Another benefit is the reduced need for copper in conductors. While conductors with four to five wires are required for alternating voltage, one to two wires less are needed for direct voltage. This represents a copper saving of more than 40 per cent.
For many years, DEHN has been committed to protecting DC systems and offers customised protection solutions. The company has a DC test field where surges and DC networks can be simulated. The specific source characteristics of PV systems can also be reproduced there.
The company was particularly active in the forerunner project DC-INDUSTRIE and was able to gain valuable insights and experience.
These are channelled into pilot projects dealing with DC grids in industrial applications and buildings. DEHN supplies, for example, DC surge arresters for local public transport systems and special surge protection solutions for photovoltaic systems.
Further information on DEHN’s DC range or sustainability efforts (sustainability | DEHN) can be found on our website DEHN – lightning protection, surge protection, safety equipment.
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About DEHN SE
DEHN is a leading, international family-owned electrical engineering company based in Neumarkt, Germany. With its comprehensive portfolio, DEHN addresses the megatrends of our time – from e-mobility and renewables to the protection of critical infrastructure. The company offers solutions and services for lightning and surge protection as well as safety equipment – fields in which, with more than 1,100 patents, DEHN is a leading innovator. The company’s products protect people and buildings, systems and telecommunications technology, process industry, as well as photovoltaic systems and wind turbines.
With more than 2,500 employees worldwide, DEHN achieved revenue of around 470 million euros in the fiscal year 2023/2024. Alongside more than 115 years of experience, this constant growth is based on the highest quality standards and a consistent orientation towards customers and markets worldwide.
