LS Electric is advancing preparations for South Korea's west coast "energy expressway" project, a key part of President Lee Jae Myung's energy policy aimed at boosting stable power transmission while reducing reliance on foreign technology. The project, valued at $7.93 billion (11 trillion won), will build undersea high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems by 2030 to help meet surging electricity demand.

The company recently completed development of Korea's first 500-megawatt-class voltage source converter transformer, the largest of its kind domestically, which is set for deployment at an HVDC converter station in Incheon.

Originally designated in 2013 as Korea's exclusive HVDC converter system provider, LS Electric has since expanded its role in both domestic and international power infrastructure projects. In July, the company signed a partnership with GE Vernova to localize core HVDC converter components, including converter valves, enhancing supply chain resilience.

The firm is also investing in new facilities, including a second plant in Busan dedicated to HVDC solution testing and assembly. With AI and data-driven industries expected to drive power demand higher, the company aims to strengthen its competitiveness in the global HVDC market long dominated by European players.

Source: koreatimes.co.kr