Infographic overview with losses, costs, distance efficiency, complexity, and timelines. Values are typical ranges; adjust assumptions with the distance and loss sliders.
Side-by-side: Transmission Towers
AC Lattice Tower (3-phase)
HVDC Bipole Tower
Power loss per 1000 km
HVDC3–5%
3%5%
AC8–15%
8%15%
Ranges reflect midpoint overhead-line assumptions; submarine cables and voltage level can change values. Adjust curve assumptions below.
Percentages vary by terrain, voltage, and whether submarine cable is required. Use your own project data if available.
Delivered power vs distance
Assumptions per 1000 km:HVDC line loss4.0%AC line loss11.0%Converter loss (each)0.6%
Highlight distance1000 km
HVDC delivered at selected distance
—%
AC delivered at selected distance
—%
Delivered power = initial power × (1 − converter loss)^2 × (1 − line loss × distance/1000). AC curve does not include reactive compensation equipment; add margins as needed.
Technology complexity comparison
Higher score = more complexity. HVDC: high in power electronics/control; AC: higher in system‑wide synchronization/reactive management.
Installation timelines (illustrative months)
AC corridor
~30 + 20 + 15 + 35 = ~100 months (varies widely)
HVDC corridor
Converter factory lead times can dominate (orange).
Permitting/EIA
Right‑of‑way
Procurement (AC equip.)
Converters (HVDC)
Construction
Notes
• Typical overhead-line loss references: AC ~8–15%/1000 km, HVDC ~3–5%/1000 km; converter stations ~0.4–1.0% per terminal. Values vary by voltage, conductor size, temperature, and cable vs. overhead construction. Replace with your project’s engineering estimates for precision.
• Cost splits are illustrative only; real projects depend strongly on terrain, permitting, submarine segments, and market conditions.
• This infographic is for conceptual planning and communication; not a substitute for detailed design studies.