The DC-GRIDS program supports the small-scale research and development of more compact and cost-effective power electronics converters for direct current (DC) transmission to transport electricity over longer distances with less electricity lost.
Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance
June 11, 2026
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The Disruptive DC Converters for Grid Resilient Infrastructure to Deliver Secure energy (DC-GRIDS) program supports the small-scale research and development of more compact and cost-effective power electronics converters for direct current (DC) transmission to transport electricity over longer distances with less electricity lost during conveyance from generator to user. Specifically, DC-GRIDS projects will focus on the development of high-performance modular valves used in multi-terminal high voltage direct current (HVDC) converters and updating converter substation technologies. If successful, DC-GRIDS projects would develop converter technologies that reduce the initial investment cost of multi-terminal HVDC stations to levels comparable to AC substations, improving the grid’s reliability, capacity, and performance, ultimately reducing dependence on foreign energy, thereby increasing U.S. energy security.