Quick Take: Researchers in the U.S. have looked at the idea of a direct-to-DC grid. Under this schema, power is not converted from DC to AC to deliver it, then converted back to DC for use in electronic gear. Instead, it stays DC the whole way. But most U.S. projects have concluded that the benefits do NOT outweigh problems and complications. Here is a Chinese group that thinks otherwise and that hopes to prove its point with a real-world build-out. – Jesse Berst

According to the announcement which you can read in full on page 2, the university's direct-current microgrid could change the way Chinese campuses and building complexes manage, control and consume energy by directly integrating renewable energy generation and storage batteries with building electrical loads through one-touch mobile and web-based energy management and control applications.

"The Xiamen University Direct-Current Microgrid has the potential to transform building management because it can integrate DC power from renewable energy with many loads," said Professor Fengyan Zhang. "This will enable building managers to reduce capital expenditures as well as operational costs over the life of their buildings."

In addition to Xiamen University, alliance members include Nextek Power Systems, People Power, Canadian Solar, Intel and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

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Jesse Berst is the founder and chief analyst of Smart Grid News.com. He consults to smart grid companies seeking market entry advice and M&A advisory. A frequent keynoter at industry events in the US and abroad, he also serves on the Advisory Council of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Energy & Environment directorate.