Below you will find the Frequently asked questions relating to the network code High Voltage Direct Current Connections.

The Network Code on High Voltage Direct Current Connections (NC HVDC) will specify requirements for long distance DC connections, links between different synchronous areas and DC-connected Power Park Modules, such as offshore wind farms, which are becoming increasingly prominent in the European electricity system.

This is a relatively new area in which fewer standards or grid codes exist, making a pan-European approach particularly beneficial. Following on from the Network Code on Requirements for Generators and the Demand Connection Code, the NC HVDC will build on the same foundations, to create a consistent and complete set of connection codes. ​

Download final draft Network Code on HVDC connections – October 2015​​

Latest Status Update (December 2015)

In October 2015, Member States gathered in comitology voted positively on the new HVDC code. The code will now go through scrutiny by the European Parliament and Council, and ENTSO-E hopes it will enter into force in spring of 2016.

The draft code and all the related documents can be downloaded from the links in the table below. An overview of the latest developments for all network codes is available.

What Happens Next?

Far from representing the end of the work establishing an internal electricity market, the Comitology process is in fact just the beginning.

The network codes have been developed to help realise Europe’s three energy policy goals – of ensuring security of supply; creating a competitive Internal Electricity Market; and decarbonising the electricity sector. For this to happen the network codes need to be implemented and complied with across Europe.

Each network requires a series of steps to be taken before they can enter into force. This might be national decisions, the conclusion of regional agreements or the creation of more detailed methodologies. All market participants, DSOs, TSOs and regulators will be involved and there will be extensive development work and consultation required.

The connection related network codes employ a flexible framework, which allow some values to be set on a national basis, within ranges specified in the network codes, while other issues are tackled on a pan European basis. This approach reflects the fact that electricity transmission infrastructure has developed differently in many European countries.

##Stakeholder Engagement ENTSO-E’s stakeholder engagement for the development of the NC HVDC will comprise of Public Stakeholder Workshops, User Group Meetings as well as ad-hoc meetings and exchange of views with any interested party as appropriate. The HVDC User Group, which was constituted after an open call in early-2013, is a key forum for continuous interaction with stakeholders to ensure that issues are communicated and shared in an efficient manner throughout the development of the HVDC code. All material, including minutes and presentations from meetings will be made public.

Public Stakeholder Workshops

User Group Meetings

Bilateral Stakeholder Meetings

Factsheet on HVDC code and technology

For further information on NC HVDC, please contact Edwin Haesen