The new centre forms part of an expansion of the Berlin electrification facility and will be used for the development and testing of new leading edge HVDC technologies.
HVDC (high voltage direct current) technology is key for the transmission of bulk power over long distances or from offshore submarine links.
Technology goals of the new centre include improving the efficiency of HVDC, simplifying the integration of renewable energy into power grids and connecting multiple HVDC transmission links.
“The world’s future is electric, and electrification is essential for achieving a net zero emissions future,” said Philippe Piron, CEO of Electrification Systems at GE Vernova.
“As a key electrification hub for GE Vernova in Europe, the Berlin site will drive innovation in grid solutions, power conversion and renewable energy integration. This investment reinforces our commitment to modernising energy systems, supporting Germany’s energy transition and leading the electrification and decarbonisation of the global energy ecosystem.”
Germany is a key market for GE Vernova, having been operating there for more than 100 years.
Germany’s energy transition requires major grid infrastructure upgrades and investment as the country moves towards generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
The company with other industrial partners recently entered into an agreement with four German TSOs – 50Hertz, Amprion, TenneT and TransnetBW – to develop a multi-terminal/multi-hub HVDC connection solution, which could form the basis for a future meshed grid interconnecting offshore wind farms.
GE Vernova also is engaged with TenneT on a 2GW HVDC offshore transmission system programme in Germany and the Netherlands.
The HVDC competence centre, expected to bring an estimated 500 new engineering, project management and other skilled support staff jobs to the region, should support these activities, as well as others in the order backlog.
