Lead Performer: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory – Berkeley, CA
July 17, 2023
minute read time
Lead Performer: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory – Berkeley, CA
Partner: Power Integrations Inc. – San Jose, CA
DOE Total Funding: $500,000
Cost Share: $500,000
Project Term: September 1, 2021 – September 30, 2023
Funding Type: CRADA
Project Objective
Power Integrations is developing a receptacle that can connect to a 380V DC bus and power USB-C devices. These receptacles will enable a practical plug-load solution for DC buildings. The solution is unique in three ways:
- It will deliver at least 140 W USB-PD at an exceptionally high efficiency of over 93%.
- The receptacle itself will have a no-load draw of < 30 mW.
- The receptacle will be so efficient and generate so little waste heat that it will safely fit in conventional wall outlets and still comply with thermal safety codes.
This solution will enable a DC power ecosystem in homes and commercial buildings. Since DC power will be distributed through a house at a high voltage, there will be reduced transmission loss; at the same time the receptacle will provide all the benefits of low-voltage DC to devices. This solution eliminates standby losses from power supplies associated with many miscellaneous electrical loads. The system can exploit methods of power adaptation associated with USB-PD and further reduce standby loads caused by low power modes. LBNL will contribute its unique capabilities in DC power, measurements, and technical standards, in addition to developing design requirements for the ecosystem supporting the in-the-wall module. Later, as Power Integrations develops prototype modules, LBNL will test the units to determine if thermal and efficiency targets are met. LBNL will also evaluate the net energy savings of the ecosystem.
Project Impact
This project will develop a market-ready USB-PD wall socket and verify its electrical and thermal characteristics. The USB wall socket will allow the emerging USB ecosystem to connect to DC distribution, thus removing a major barrier to the adoption of efficient DC buildings with managed power flow.
Contacts
DOE Technology Manager: Wyatt Merrill
Lead Performer: Alan Meier, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory