Supergrids in Europe: Past studies and AC/DC transmission new approach

This paper seeks to propose a hybrid AC/DC power transmission network by the addition of superimposed HVDC lines overlaying existing European transmission corridors. The revision is focused on presenting the opportunities, benefits and challenges found in Europe for the modification of existing overhead AC transmission lines to allow the addition of DC lines in order to minimize the economical and environmental impacts derived from the construction of new power transmission corridors. Some considerations to illustrate the feasibility of these modifications are presented, providing a first approach view of the aspects to be followed and a techno-economic assessment of the proposal.