Korea Sets New Standards For Next-Generation HVDC Testing
Korea has taken a decisive step in modernising its power transmission capabilities with the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS) unveiling the nation’s first comprehensive measurement standards for High Voltage Direct Current systems. This milestone provides a reliable foundation for verifying the performance of ultra-high-voltage power equipment, strengthening domestic manufacturing, reducing reliance on overseas testing, and supporting Korea’s ambitions to build an advanced and resilient power grid.
High Voltage Direct Current technology has long been recognised as a crucial enabler for transmitting vast volumes of electricity over long distances. Its ability to reduce power losses, control load flow more precisely and stabilise grids has driven its adoption across Europe, China and North America. Korea, now moving rapidly to expand renewable generation and shift supply from remote regions to dense metropolitan demand centres, views HVDC as a core component of its emerging national energy strategy.
The Strategic Importance Of HVDC
HVDC systems convert alternating current from power plants into direct current at extremely high voltages before sending it across long-distance lines. Unlike AC transmission, which suffers from reactive losses, HVDC allows energy to move with significantly higher efficiency. This makes the technology ideal for connecting offshore wind farms, linking remote power stations and establishing cross-border interconnectors.
Global demand for HVDC solutions continues to rise as countries scale up renewable energy. Market forecasts from industry analysts suggest the global HVDC market could surpass USD 15 billion by 2030, driven largely by the expansion of mega-scale renewables and grid modernisation. Korea’s own governmental priorities reflect this trend. At the inaugural meeting of the National Power Grid Committee in October, HVDC development was identified as a strategic pillar for building an integrated “energy superhighway” linking production zones with consumption centres.
Closing A Critical Gap In National Capability
Until recently, Korea lacked the measurement standards required to test the reliability and performance of ultra-high-voltage equipment used in HVDC systems. Heavy electrical manufacturers were forced to rely on overseas laboratories to conduct calibration, withstand voltage tests and impulse testing, creating delays and raising costs.
This absence of domestic standards also created a barrier for Korean companies seeking IEC certification, an essential requirement for global export. Without nationally recognised benchmarks, manufacturers struggled to validate product performance to international clients.
The new system developed by KRISS changes that landscape entirely.
New Ultra-High-Voltage Standards
KRISS has established three critical measurement standards tailored specifically for HVDC system evaluation:
- 600 kV-class DC high-voltage standard
- 800 kV lightning impulse (LI) standard
- 700 kV switching impulse (SI) standard
The expansion of the DC voltage standard from 200 kV to 600 kV represents a threefold increase in Korea’s domestic testing capacity. This upgraded standard now underpins withstand voltage tests, which assess whether power equipment can safely operate under voltages exceeding normal levels.
KRISS also introduced precise calibration capabilities for lightning impulse and switching impulse tests. Lightning impulses simulate extreme voltage surges caused by lightning strikes, while switching impulses model rapid overvoltages that arise during energisation or disconnection of high-power systems. These tests are vital for evaluating insulation integrity under severe conditions.
Supporting Industrial Competitiveness
The introduction of these standards provides a strong foundation for faster product certification, reduced reliance on foreign facilities and greater competitiveness for domestic heavy electrical manufacturers. Korean companies can now schedule testing on their own timelines, accelerate commercialisation cycles and respond more rapidly to global market demand.
Heavy electrical equipment is central to the nation’s economic strength. Power transformers, switchgear, circuit breakers and HVDC converters form the backbone of modern power infrastructure. The ability to validate these components domestically gives Korean manufacturers a strategic edge.
KRISS has already started applying the new standards by providing calibration services at KEPCO’s Gochang Electric Power Testing Center and at ILJIN Electric. This immediate deployment demonstrates the readiness of Korea’s testing ecosystem and its ability to support ongoing industrial growth.
Insights From KRISS
Dr Lee Hyung Kew, who leads the Quantum Electricity and Magnetism Metrology Group at KRISS, emphasised the significance of this development: “Based on the newly established standards, KRISS has begun providing calibration services for HVDC testing equipment at KEPCO’s Gochang Electric Power Testing Center and at ILJIN Electric. We will continue to develop the ultra-high-voltage measurement standards needed by Korea’s power industry, contributing to the stability of the national grid and to strengthening industrial competitiveness.”
His statement illustrates KRISS’s broader commitment to strengthening Korea’s position in the global power technology landscape.
Global Context And Additional Developments
Globally, ultra-high-voltage HVDC projects have become a defining feature of major energy transitions. China, for example, operates more than 30 UHVDC lines exceeding 800 kV, linking far-western renewable hubs to eastern cities. Europe is scaling up interconnections through the North Sea to transport offshore wind energy. The United States is investing in multi-state HVDC corridors to integrate large-scale solar and wind developments.
Korea’s new standards position domestic manufacturers to participate more competitively in this global expansion. They also support the development of Korea’s offshore wind ambitions, which require long-distance HVDC cables and converter stations to bring gigawatts of power to shore.
Strengthening National Energy Security
A modern and resilient power grid depends on well-tested, high-quality equipment. By establishing high-voltage and impulse measurement standards within its borders, Korea gains greater control over the quality, reliability and safety of its future grid.
These standards also bolster energy security by ensuring that domestic testing facilities are available during emergencies, supply chain disruptions or geopolitical tensions. Rapid verification of power equipment becomes essential during periods of high demand or natural disasters.
A Foundation For Future Innovation
This initiative was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT under a national programme aimed at building a cutting-edge measurement and standardisation framework for intelligent power grids. The effort aligns with Korea’s long-term plans to integrate smart grid technologies, digital substations and automated monitoring systems.
HVDC technologies will play an increasingly pivotal role in this ecosystem. Advanced testing capabilities ensure that Korea can confidently deploy next-generation converters, insulation systems and digital controls designed for the grid of the future.
The Next Era Of Ultra-high-voltage Power Transmission
The establishment of national HVDC measurement standards marks a significant leap forward for Korea’s power industry. It enables faster product development, strengthens export competitiveness and supports the nation’s broader ambition to create a high-efficiency, high-reliability energy superhighway.
With KRISS continuing to expand its metrological capabilities, Korea is well-placed to shape the next era of ultra-high-voltage power transmission.
