The electric transmission grid is a crucial component of modern society – much like the cornerstone of a building, transmission is the foundation that supports activity in virtually all areas of the energy sector.

Industry and government leaders are increasingly finding that, in order to reap the full benefits of renewable energy and smart grid technologies, the capacity and information-carrying ability of transmission systems much be expanded substantially. According to a report from the research firm, one of the most important high-growth sectors within this market is HVDC transmission.

Pike Research’s analysis finds that much of the HVDC market growth is being driven by China, where it is the preferred technology for long-distance transmission. Europe has also used HVDC for underwater cables, long-distance transmission lines, and renewable generation integration.

In addition, individual country grids are interconnected through the use of back-to-back HVDC. There are some HVDC installations in the United States, including interconnections with Mexico and Canada.

While it has traditionally only made up about two percent of the US market, Pike Research forecasts that the use of HVDC will increase substantially in the coming years and will represent eight percent of cumulative investment in the US transmission market through 2020.

Clint Wheelock, president of Pike Research, said: “As grid operators work to boost transmission capacity over the next several years, HVDC will capture a much greater share of the total market. HVDC provides a favorable alternative to overhead alternating current transmission, requiring a smaller right-of-way and resulting in less line loss.”

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