Cost, Safety, and Efficiency: DC vs AC Power Systems in Households

This report provides a comprehensive comparison of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) power systems for household applications. It begins by introducing the fundamental differences between DC and AC, including their historical development and common applications. The methodology section details the two main methods of connecting solar panels to batteries (DC-coupled and AC-coupled) along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. The report then delves into the specifics of DC and AC appliances, wiring, energy consumption, and cost analysis. A significant portion of the report focuses on the cost comparison between DC and AC systems, including a numerical analysis of capital costs and potential savings. The safety aspects of both systems are also discussed. The results section highlights the economic advantages of DC power systems, showing substantial cost savings. The report concludes by advocating for DC power systems in households, emphasizing their efficiency and cost-effectiveness based on the analysis and data provided, and highlighting the potential for significant financial savings. The report makes a strong argument for adopting DC power systems for household use, considering various factors such as cost, efficiency, and safety. The data used for analysis is taken from the UK electricity service sector.