HVDC Overview

High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) solutions are ideal for supporting existing

AC transmission systems or for building new power highways. HVDC is a

system which interconnects two AC networks, converting AC voltage to DC

voltage, and DC voltage to AC voltage utilizing power electronics technology.

HVDC systems enable transfer of power, interconnection of grids, integration

of renewables and maximize grid performance.

Move more power, further

Ultra HVDC can operate at voltages up to 800kV enabling bulk transport

of electricity over long distances. HVDC systems have lower losses than AC

systems and can transmit up to 3 times more power than AC networks. HVDC

systems are more economical than HVAC for schemes with transmission

distances more than approximately 700 km(~400 miles). The use of insulated

cables in both submarine and underground applications, in combination

with HVDC, allows more power to be transmitted across long water

crossings, or buried out of sight adjacent to roads, railways and tunnels,

which may accelerate the permitting process compared to AC or overhead

DC transmission alternatives.

Integrate renewables

HVDC is a versatile and flexible technology, making it an ideal solution for

integrating renewable energy in modern grids such as remote windfarms,

both offshore and onshore. HVDC can provide additional controllability to

network operators to support efficient management of transmission of

mixed energy sources, including the increasing use of renewables combined

with energy storage.