The development of future distribution network technologies has begun in earnest to respond to power demand linked to distribution and establish a stable power supply environment through the development and demonstration support of DC distribution network technologies for the operation of mixed AC/DC distribution networks.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy held the first steering committee meeting for the 'Next-Generation AC/DC Hybrid Distribution Network Technology Development Project' on the 12th.

This project is a technology development initiative to construct a mixed AC and DC distribution network by connecting medium-voltage DC (MVDC) lines in parallel to Korea's existing AC-centric power distribution grid.

The goal is to complete the construction of a mixed AC/DC distribution network by 2030 through 7 years of support totaling 190.5 billion won for the development of core components, equipment, and operational technologies, as well as the establishment of testbeds.

After a selection evaluation in August of this year, the implementing entities for seven priority projects were finalized in October through the signing of agreements, and the holding of this Steering Committee meeting marked the official commencement of the projects.

The AC/DC hybrid distribution network is a new concept power grid that utilizes the existing power system to additionally connect a DC distribution network alongside the AC distribution network. It is expected to offer benefits such as expanding the grid capacity for renewable energy integration, improving operational efficiency by reducing conversion losses (AC↔DC), resolving social acceptance issues associated with new grid construction by utilizing the existing network, and reducing investment costs.

also It is expected that if the public and private sectors cooperate to secure technological capabilities for the MVDC distribution industry, which is currently in its early stages globally, it will be possible to secure new growth engines for the power industry.

An official from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy stated, “Currently, Korea’s power system requires changes to existing power grid planning and operation methods due to the expansion of direct current and distributed renewable energy sources,” adding, “We hope that the development of future distribution network technology will serve as a breakthrough.”

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Korea Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning Institute plan to manage rapid technology development, enhanced reliability, and organic linkage between technology and policy through the Steering Committee, which serves as a control tower, to ensure the successful implementation of the project.