Skip to Content

New USB Plugs Might Enable Efficient DC Grids

New USB plugs will be able to handle ten times as much power, potentially changing the way we charge electronics.
October 25, 2013

A recent article in The Economist argues that a new standard for USB plugs, out next year, could help promote a shift to using DC power in offices and homes, which could reduce energy consumption and make solar power more attractive.

A lot of the things that use power in a home or business–computers, laptops, smartphones, LED lights, many motors—run on DC power. And converting the AC power at an outlet to DC wastes a considerable amount of energy. If you have solar panels, you add another layer of waste. Solar panels produce DC power, which is converted, at a loss, to AC power, only to be converted back to DC when you charge your phone.  

It’s already possible to set up DC grids that skip AC and directly power DC devices with DC solar power. Such grids are used in data centers for example. But a consumer-friendly USB standard might make the switch easier. 

Keep Reading

Most Popular

DeepMind’s cofounder: Generative AI is just a phase. What’s next is interactive AI.

“This is a profound moment in the history of technology,” says Mustafa Suleyman.

What to know about this autumn’s covid vaccines

New variants will pose a challenge, but early signs suggest the shots will still boost antibody responses.

Human-plus-AI solutions mitigate security threats

With the right human oversight, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence can help keep business and customer data secure

Next slide, please: A brief history of the corporate presentation

From million-dollar slide shows to Steve Jobs’s introduction of the iPhone, a bit of show business never hurt plain old business.

Stay connected

Illustration by Rose Wong

Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review

Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.

Thank you for submitting your email!

Explore more newsletters

It looks like something went wrong.

We’re having trouble saving your preferences. Try refreshing this page and updating them one more time. If you continue to get this message, reach out to us at customer-service@technologyreview.com with a list of newsletters you’d like to receive.