LS Electric has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with GE Vernova to accelerate the localization of voltage-type high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems -- a core technology in the development of South Korea's future power grid.

The MOU was signed on July 23 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Seoul, attended by Koo Ja-kyun, Chairman of LS Electric, and Philip Piron, CEO of GE Vernova's Electrification division.

The agreement aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities by integrating GE Vernova's advanced conversion valve technology into LS Electric's existing production infrastructure. Conversion valves are essential components in voltage-type HVDC systems, which allow real-time, bidirectional control of electricity -- making them ideal for renewable energy transmission.

LS Electric previously localized HVDC conversion transformers (CTR) and is now working to complete localization of full conversion facilities. The move is aligned with the national "West Coast Energy Highway" initiative, which plans to transmit renewable energy from Korea's Honam region to the metropolitan area by 2030.

The company had already invested KRW 110 billion in 2011 to build Korea's first HVDC plant in Busan.

A company official noted that reducing reliance on foreign products would help stabilize costs and delivery schedules amid global uncertainties. With this partnership, LS Electric aims to strengthen its turnkey solution capabilities in HVDC systems and enhance its competitiveness in renewable energy infrastructure.

Source: mk.co.kr