South Korea's first SF₆-free 420 kV GIS unveiled, with 98% lower global warming potential
Special-purpose transformers showcased to support expansion in offshore wind markets including Poland and Taiwan
DC distribution technology and long-duration ESS solutions demonstrate capabilities for future power grids
HD Hyundai Electric, led by Kim Young-ki, showcased a range of core technologies and solutions for future power grids at this year's BIXPO 2026, including low-emission extra-high-voltage power equipment, DC distribution and energy storage systems (ESS).
At the event held at the Kimdaejung Convention Center in Gwangju on November 4, HD Hyundai Electric focused on technologies that can reduce carbon emissions and improve grid stability throughout electricity generation, transmission and distribution.
Its SF₆-free 420 kV gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), developed first in South Korea and third worldwide, attracted particular attention from visitors. The product uses a mixture of C₄F₇N, or fluoronitrile, and CO₂ instead of conventional SF₆, reducing global warming potential by approximately 98% while maintaining the performance required for extra-high-voltage transmission.
The company also showcased special-purpose transformer technologies that support stable power system operation. A phase-shifting transformer (PST) adjusts the flow and direction of electricity on transmission lines to reduce concentration on particular lines. An explosion-resistant transformer incorporating Dynamic Pressure Resistant System (DPRS) technology rapidly relieves sharp pressure increases caused by internal faults, reducing the risk of tank rupture and fire.
HD Hyundai Electric said it is also expanding its ability to supply special-purpose transformers that improve grid efficiency and safety, drawing on extra-high-voltage transformer technology rated up to 800 kV and 1,500 MVA.
The company also presented its track record in global offshore wind markets. In 2023, HD Hyundai Electric supplied 275 kV transformers and shunt reactors to Poland's Baltica 2 offshore wind project, becoming the first South Korean power equipment company to enter the European offshore wind market. It is also expanding its global offshore wind presence by supplying power equipment to Taiwan's Formosa 4 and Feng Miao projects.
In next-generation distribution, the company introduced DC distribution solutions that improve energy efficiency by reducing losses during power conversion. It displayed key components of DC distribution panels, including meters, ACBs, MCCBs, MCBs and SPDs, and highlighted the world's first commercialized 1 MW building DC distribution system, installed at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. Based at its Cheongju distribution campus, HD Hyundai Electric continues to cooperate with Korea Electric Power Corporation on DC distribution. It has also secured technical capabilities for global markets through UL certification of its DC 1,500 V DSU.
Long-duration ESS solutions designed to accommodate renewable energy expansion were another major feature of the exhibition. HD Hyundai Electric is building a 96 MW, 732 MWh long-duration ESS on Anjwa Island in Sinan County, South Jeolla Province, targeting completion and the start of commercial operation by the end of 2026.
The facility is expected to help stabilize the grid in the Honam region, where renewable energy accounts for a high share of generation, by storing renewable electricity whose output varies with weather conditions and supplying it when needed.
A representative of HD Hyundai Electric said, “We plan to continue taking a leading role in building stable and efficient next-generation power grids and achieving carbon neutrality, drawing on a technology portfolio encompassing low-emission power equipment, DC distribution and ESS.”
Original Korean article: Electric Times
English brief by Korea Wind Intelligence, koreawindintel.com
