Energy firms launch HVDC joint venture and modular substation programs

LS ELECTRIC and GE Vernova have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture named Grid X Technology. The partnership focuses on voltage-sourced converter high-voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) technology and projects in South Korea. The venture aims to combine GE Vernova’s HVDC technology with LS ELECTRIC’s local manufacturing and project execution capabilities to support next-generation transmission infrastructure, such as Korea’s West Coast Energy Highway.

In Scotland, SSEN Transmission has placed its first orders for standardized modular substations through framework agreements with Hitachi Energy and GE Vernova. These 132 kV and 33 kV modules are designed to accelerate renewable grid connections by allowing assembly and testing to be completed off-site. SSEN Transmission expects to order 15 modules by the end of 2026, representing over 1 GW of renewable generation capacity, with the first energizations planned for autumn 2028.