GE Vernova announced that it has been selected by Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO) through its joint venture, KAPES, to supply an advanced high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) system for the 500-kV Donghaean #2 to Dong-Seoul HVDC converter station project (EP2). This project is part of a 4-GW HVDC transmission link connecting South Korea’s power generation complex on the east coast to the Seoul metropolitan area, marking the largest power grid infrastructure initiative in the country’s history. GE Vernova, in collaboration with KAPES, is also overseeing the EP1 project. Together, EP1 and EP2 aim to ensure a stable and reliable power supply to the Seoul metropolitan area, which accounts for around 40% of South Korea’s energy demand. These projects will benefit from GE Vernova’s advanced HVDC technology designed for efficient long-distance power transmission and grid resilience to meet the growing energy requirements. GE Vernova’s responsibilities for the EP2 project include providing HVDC valves and control systems based on LCC technology to facilitate stable large-scale power transmission.
KEPCO views advanced HVDC technology as crucial for South Korea’s energy transition. The EP2 project aims to facilitate efficient and stable power transmission to key industrial areas while establishing a sustainable and resilient energy network. Yu-won Kang, CEO of KAPES, emphasized the venture’s leadership in HVDC provision in Korea, showcasing technological expertise and project management capabilities. KAPES is proud to support KEPCO in Korea’s energy transition and contribute to stabilizing the nation’s power grid.
GE Vernova’s Electrification segment is experiencing rapid growth, with a focus on delivering innovative solutions for a sustainable and resilient energy future in Asia and beyond. The company’s commitment to providing advanced solutions aligns with KEPCO’s evolving power infrastructure needs. Collaborating with KEPCO through KAPES allows GE Vernova to deliver transformative solutions that support South Korea’s vision for a sustainable energy future.
Established in 2012, KAPES, a joint venture between KEPCO and GE Vernova, has been crucial in delivering significant projects addressing South Korea’s unique energy requirements. For more information on GE Vernova’s endeavors in South Korea, read about the company’s support for a coal-to-gas conversion at a major power station.
Energy needs are a critical consideration in today’s world. Alongside EP1 and EP2, there are key initiatives such as the Buk-Dangjin-Godeok HVDC Connection, a transmission link capable of supplying 3 GW of power from the Dangjin power plant to Seoul and its surrounding regions. Another significant project is the Shin-Bupyeong HVDC Link, a 500-MW back-to-back voltage sourced converter (VSC) system in Incheon. This system is specifically designed to alleviate grid overloads. These projects collectively highlight the important role that KAPES plays in enhancing South Korea’s power grid and advancing its energy infrastructure.
HVDC technology is paramount in the global transition towards sustainable energy systems. It enables efficient and reliable power transmission over long distances, making it a crucial component of modern energy networks. HVDC systems that utilize LCC technology rely on thyristor-based power semiconductors to transfer substantial amounts of power, reaching up to 8 GW, while minimizing energy losses. The capability of these systems to handle bulk power transmission and offer built-in protection against faults makes them particularly well-suited for strengthening South Korea’s power grid and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources.
In South Korea, HVDC technology is deployed with the aim of enhancing efficiency and stability in transmitting power over extended distances. This technology supports bi-directional energy flow and facilitates the seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the grid. EP2, in particular, is geared towards establishing a reliable link between the power generation facilities on the East Coast and the high-demand metropolitan area. This includes semiconductor manufacturing hubs in Yongin, Incheon, and Pyeongtaek.
It is important to note that POWER has edited the content provided by the external communications team of GE Vernova’s Electrification Systems business. The significance of these projects cannot be understated, as they are instrumental in meeting the growing energy demands of South Korea and ensuring a reliable power supply for its residents and industries.
