The South Korean government is advancing the implementation of a direct current (DC) power distribution network in response to the growing use of renewable energy, energy storage systems (ESS), and data centers. A plan outlining policy, technology, and institutional support for the 'DC Industry Activation Plan' is expected to be established in the third quarter.
The Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment announced that Minister Kim Sung-hwan will host a 'DC Industry Activation Meeting' on the afternoon of July 29 at the Power Infrastructure Center in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul.
Participants in the meeting will include representatives from Korea Electric Power Corporation, Korea Electronics Technology Institute, Korea Electric Research Institute, LS Electric, HD Hyundai Electric, Hyosung Heavy Industries, LG Electronics, Hanwha, and academic experts.
Solar power generation and ESS produce and store electricity in direct current, and major information technology (IT) equipment in data centers also operates on DC power. Currently, the existing alternating current (AC) power grid requires a conversion process to utilize DC power, but a DC distribution network can reduce this conversion step, enhancing efficiency. The importance of related power conversion devices and distribution network technology has grown with the recent expansion of renewable energy and data centers.
During the meeting, Korea Electric Power Corporation will present its plans for the introduction of a DC distribution network. LS Electric and Hyosung Heavy Industries will introduce their private sector initiatives for DC projects and propose policies to stimulate the industry. The Korea Electronics Technology Institute will discuss the necessity of fostering the DC industry and outline technological and institutional challenges.
Based on the feedback provided during the meeting, the Ministry of Climate will refine the policy, technology, and institutional tasks related to the introduction of the DC distribution network and aim to finalize the 'DC Industry Activation Plan' by the third quarter.
Prior to the meeting, Minister Kim visited the Yangju Converter Station to inspect the domestic 200 MW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology, which has been applied for the first time in the Yangju back-to-back (BTB) facility. BTB systems connect different power systems to ensure stable power exchange.
Minister Kim requested updates on the localization of HVDC technology from Korea Electric Power Corporation and Hyosung Heavy Industries, as well as policy suggestions for industry activation, urging companies to make proactive investments to enhance the competitiveness of the domestic HVDC industry.
He stated, 'As the demand for DC-based power from renewable energy, energy storage systems, and data centers expands, the DC industry will be a crucial area that determines the competitiveness of the future power industry. We will cultivate the technology and experience accumulated in our country into a future export industry that enhances the export competitiveness of our companies.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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