Exactly why is ABBs new hybrid HVDC breaker important?

ABB unveiled a a ground breaking new technology today that promises a new era in grid technology. But exactly why is this important?

The war of currents was played out 100 years ago between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). Alternating current won, although direct current is much more efficient at transmitting power over long distances, for example between remote renewable energy sources and population centers. This makes high voltage direct current a key technology in overcoming the problem that renewable energy is seldom produced in places where it needs to be consumed, for example by connecting remote offshore windfarms to inland population centers.

However, the problem until now has been that there was no way to create a “grid” using DC technology. A grid is what you need to effectively balance supply and demand and ensure reliability. This new innovation from ABB makes it possible for the first time to create an high voltage direct current grid allowing the efficient integration of remote renewable energy sources.

This technology makes it possible for us to build the future grid, a highly efficient and stable power infrastructure that meets new energy challenges.

Find out more at Tomorrow’s HVDC Grid