GE Vernova to provide HVDC System for South Korea’s largest power grid infrastructure project

GE Vernova announced that it has been chosen through its joint venture, KAPES, by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to deliver its advanced High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) system, based on Line Commutated Converter (LCC) technology, for the 500 kV Donghaean #2 to Dong-Seoul HVDC converter station project (EP2). This project, part of a larger 4 GW HVDC transmission link, is planned to connect South Korea’s power generation complex on the east coast to the Seoul metropolitan area and is intended to be the largest power grid infrastructure initiative in the country’s history.

The EP2 project complements the EP1 project, which is also being executed by GE Vernova through KAPES. Together, EP1 and EP2 projects are designed to provide a stable and reliable power supply to the Seoul metropolitan area, which accounts for approximately 40% of South Korea’s energy demand. Both projects are expected to benefit from GE Vernova’s advanced HVDC technology, designed for efficient long-distance power transmission and enhancing grid resilience to meet growing energy needs.

GE Vernova’s scope for the EP2 project includes the engineering and delivery of HVDC Valves and Control Systems based on LCC technology, essential for the stable transmission of large-scale power. The project underscores the increasing demand for technology from GE Vernova’s Electrification segment, which continues to grow rapidly.

KEPCO’s Vision for a Sustainable Energy Future
KEPCO is prioritizing advanced HVDC technology as a critical enabler of South Korea’s energy transition. The EP2 project is designed to provide efficient and stable power transmission to key industrial regions while laying the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient energy network.

KAPES: Strengthening South Korea’s Power Grid
KAPES, the joint venture between KEPCO and GE Vernova established in 2012, has been instrumental in delivering various important projects that address South Korea’s unique energy needs. In addition to EP1 and EP2, key initiatives include the Buk-Dangjin-Godeok HVDC Connection, a 3 GW transmission link supplying power from the Dangjin power plant to Seoul and its surrounding regions, and the Shin-Bupyeong HVDC Link, a 500 MW Back-to-Back Voltage Sourced Converter (VSC) system in Incheon designed to alleviate grid overloads. These projects collectively underscore KAPES’ role in strengthening South Korea’s power grid and advancing its energy infrastructure.

The Role of HVDC in Korea’s Energy Transition
High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology is essential in the global shift toward sustainable energy systems as it supports efficient and reliable power transmission over long distances. HVDC system based on the Line Commutated Converter (LCC) technology uses thyristor-based power semiconductors to transfer large amounts of power—up to 8 GW—with low energy losses. Its ability to handle bulk power transmission while providing built-in protection against faults makes it ideal for strengthening South Korea’s power grid and supporting the integration of renewable energy.

In South Korea, HVDC aims for enhanced efficiency and stability in transmitting power over long distances, supporting bi-directional energy flow and facilitating renewable energy integration. EP2 is intended to provide a reliable link between the East Coast’s power generation facilities and the high-demand metropolitan area, including semiconductor manufacturing hubs in Yongin, Incheon, and Pyeongtaek.