Author: Yoalina Kalcheva

This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of a DC-based public lighting system installed in the Buitenhof neighborhood of Delft, Netherlands. The system replaces a conventional AC setup [1] with a bipolar DC grid incorporating solid-state protection and dual-end ring feeding. Key objectives included improving operational efficiency, reducing material costs, and simplifying maintenance. The modular cable architecture and improved fault detection capabilities contributed to faster diagnostics and higher system reliability. Continuous monitoring and remote control of the lighting grid were achieved through solid-state breakers, offering enhanced data visibility and control. Overall, the project demonstrates the viability and advantages of adopting DC technology in urban public lighting infrastructure.

DC Opportunities has successfully conducted a real-world pilot of its DC-to-DC charging station at The Green Village in Delft, thanks to support from InnovationQuarter and the Energy & Climate Innovation Programme. The pilot provided valuable insights into both the technical performance and commercial potential of the technology, demonstrating that smart DC charging works reliably outside the lab and capturing strong interest from partners for follow-up projects and scaling opportunities.

Watch the video with Laurens Mackay here.
Read the full story on InnovationQuarter’s website.

DC Opportunities took part in the 7th IEEE International Conference on DC Microgrids (ICDCM 2025), held in Tallinn, Estonia.

Our team presented two papers on DC grid innovation:

• A Bipolar 350/700V DC Grid for Public Lighting – A Case Study
• GaN-based Neutral-point-clamped Multi-port DC-DC Converter

We also showcased a live demo of our DC Public Lighting Cabinet, highlighting its potential in real-world smart city applications.

See the full update on LinkedIn.
Learn more about our DC public lighting solution here.

This week, DC Opportunities participated in the DC World Event in Paris, a key gathering of innovators shaping the future of DC systems.

Laurens Mackay gave two presentations:

• A technical talk on our operational 350/700V DC Microgrids at The Green Village (TU Delft) and Nieuw Reijerwaard.
• A session on the implementation of DC public lighting grids, highlighting insights and challenges from real-world projects.

At the booth, Laurens Mackay and Ruben van den Bos connected with leading professionals and project partners from all over Europe.

Events like DC World 2025 strengthen the collaboration needed to accelerate the energy transition.

At this year’s Hannover Messe, Laurens Mackay presented on Bipolar DC Microgrid Technology at the Open DC Alliance (ODCA) Energy Stage. His talk explored the speed, modularity, and autonomy of our realized DC systems.

He highlighted several operational projects:

• The Green Village – DC Microgrid with a DC/DC Vehicle-to-Grid EV Charger
• Nieuw Reijerwaard – Autonomous DC Distribution Grid
• Delft Public Lighting – DC Grid powering 280 poles across a 3×3 km area

These implementations reflect the potential of innovation and collaboration in accelerating the energy transition.

The video explains the fundamentals of DC electricity, how it differs from AC, and its advantages in modern energy systems. It covers historical context, where DC is used today (e.g., solar panels, batteries, EV charging, and data centers), and why DC microgrids are becoming more relevant for energy efficiency, reduced conversion losses, and grid stability.