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The 48VDC Realisation Forum

There are two electrical energy worlds, on-grid and off-grid. The world that is on-grid has access to convenience that 100 years ago would have been considered miraculous. The world that is off-grid has to make do with amenities citizens of developed countries now would consider challenging.

  • What would it cost to get the grid everywhere; fiscally, culturally, or environmentally?
  • Is there a way to get grid benefits without grid costs?

The real challenges faced in the off-grid world speak to the aspirational challenges we have set ourselves in the on-grid world – to be more sustainable, looking to 2050. We have set ourselves the challenge to explore this and this hub brings together resources, people and organisations who can make this happen.

Position Statement

Why is a new electrical ecosystem needed and what can it offer?

The migration from no electricity to plentiful, reliable, affordable electricity is not a smooth one.

Go to Why is a new electrical ecosystem needed and what can it offer?

Blog

Levelling up the global grid

If you are a lucky one living with a resilient electric grid, happy days. But consider those too far away geographically or economically to join in the energy bonanza, which the fortunate have taken for granted their entire lives.

Go to Levelling up the global grid

Blog

Reinventing grid infrastructure to serve DC electricity direct to DC appliances

Big grid electrical infrastructure covers most of world and is almost entirely given over to alternating current (AC) distribution.

Go to Reinventing grid infrastructure to serve DC electricity direct to DC appliances

In this EngShort we discuss the need for a new electrical ecosystem in the off-grid world as there are 500 million people with an unreliable national grid.

We are advocating for the development of a global VDC ecosystem.

Get involved

Membership is open to organisations that wish to be part of this revolution, either by developing standards, influencing the direction those standards take, promoting the concept, or building demonstration installations. 

To create an ecosystem that stands the test of time in a wide variety of different environments and markets demands input from the very best experts worldwide. To ensure these are involved requires resources, to which the members will naturally be called to contribute. The organisation will also raise funds from philanthropic organisations promoting the green economy and improving the standard of living in the developing world.

Email us at policy@theiet.org to get involved, ask questions, or learn more.