HVDC transmission overview

High voltage direct current (HVDC) technology has characteristics which make it especially attractive in certain transmission applications. The number of HVDC projects committed or under consideration globally has increased in recent years reflecting a renewed interest in this field proven technology. New HVDC converter designs and improvements in conventional HVDC design have contributed to this trend. This paper provides an overview of the rationale for selection of HVDC technology and describes some of the latest technical developments.