Developed in collaboration with key ecosystem partners, including Schneider Electric and VINCI Energies Building Solutions, the project forms part of the first Current/OS pilots deployed in France and marks a significant step forward in the development of next-generation building energy systems.
As electrification accelerates and buildings integrate increasing volumes of distributed energy resources, electric vehicle charging and electronics loads, traditional alternating current (AC) infrastructures are facing growing limitations in efficiency, flexibility and energy management. DC offers a compelling alternative, enabling higher energy efficiency, improved resilience, reduced peak demand and more seamless integration of renewable energy sources. However, deploying DC architecture at building level requires novel approaches to system design, interoperability and safety.
In response to these challenges, Nexans is transforming part of its AmpaCity facility into a fully operational DC-powered environment. This next-generation pilot includes a 700 VDC main distribution bus supplying office workstations via USB-C, lighting systems, a 14.4 kWh battery storage system and two 30 kW fast charging stations for electric vehicles. The system is connected by Nexans’ dedicated DC bus cable and linked to the AC network via an interlink converter integrated by Schneider Electric. A photovoltaic installation will be added in the second phase of the project.
“This pilot is a key milestone in our ambition to accelerate the adoption of direct current in buildings” said Jérôme Fournier, VP Group Innovation at Nexans. “By working closely with partners such as Schneider Electric and VINCI Energies Building Solutions, we can test, validate and refine DC architectures in real-world conditions. This hands-on approach allows us to develop reliable, interoperable solutions that improve efficiency, performance and safety, while preparing our customers for the future of electrified infrastructure through industry-leading innovations.”
By combining advanced cable design with system-level optimisation, the DC microgrid delivers greater flexibility and enables more efficient management of energy flows across assets such as batteries, EV chargers and building loads. Nexans’ DC Series cables, specifically designed for building applications, are engineered to meet the constraints of DC architectures, offering enhanced ageing performance, improved safety features including inter-tripping capabilities, and full interoperability in line with Current/OS specifications.
“Direct current represents a major opportunity to rethink how energy is distributed and managed within buildings” added Andrea Quarteroni, New Electrical Distribution League Leader at Schneider Electric. “Through this collaboration with Nexans, we are combining our expertise to deliver integrated, future-ready systems that enhance efficiency and enable smarter energy use.”
Beyond the pilot, the initiative reinforces Nexans’ position as a pioneer in Direct Current electrification and the first cable manufacturer to integrate a DC microgrid within its own R&D facilities. It also strengthens the company’s DC Series cable portfolio, offering dedicated low-voltage DC cable solutions designed for commercial and residential buildings, public infrastructure and data centres.
Nexans’ DC cable deployed at AmpaCity demonstrator can be directly applied to data centres. It paves the way for future standards in 700–800 V DC architecture, cabling and power electronics. This approach lays the groundwork for more efficient, scalable infrastructures that are tailored to the growing energy demands of the digital sector.
“The transition to DC-powered buildings requires close collaboration across the industry” added Eric Plumey, Managing Director VINCI Energies France Building Solutions. “By contributing our expertise in microgrid engineering and design, we are helping to bring practical, scalable solutions to market that support more resilient and sustainable building infrastructure.”
By converting existing spaces into real-world demonstrators, Nexans continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of electrification while supporting the transition towards more efficient, intelligent and sustainable energy systems.
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