Location
South Korea
Timeline
2013 - 2016
Client
KEPCO (Korea Electric Power Corporation)
Contract type
EPC
The 500kV Bukdangin-Goduck HVDC Underground Transmission Line marked a milestone as South Korea’s first 500kV HVDC underground line, enhancing power capacity for the metropolitan area. Delivered for KEPCO, the project involved installation of 34.2km of dual HVDC cables and 29km of underground conduits, alongside the construction of tunnels, culverts and ventilation systems. This effort provided an initial transmission capacity of 1.5GW, with provisions for future expansion to 3GW.
Innovative solutions played a pivotal role in the project’s success, including the use of Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) for real-time line protection, partial discharge monitoring systems, and advanced cable-pulling techniques enabling joint-free installation in a 5.2km subsea tunnel. Precast concrete minimised on-site disruptions, while tunnelling machines (TBMs) expedited construction in challenging sections. Despite complex technical and logistical demands, meticulous planning and community engagement ensured timely delivery and minimised disruptions. The project achieved full environmental compliance and introduced groundbreaking monitoring technologies, setting new standards for HVDC systems. This initiative secured a stable power supply for the region and demonstrated GS E&C and South Korea’s capability in advanced energy infrastructure.
