a b s t r a c tThe European transmission grid is facing an investment challenge. There is a strong call for more transmission capacity. At the same time, the investment climate is fierce and troubled by public opposition, a complex regulatory framework, etc. Many transmission capacity expansion projects are delayed or canceled. In this paper different technology options suitable for increasing transmission capacity are discussed. The aim is to provide policy-makers with information on technologies without going too much into technical details. The focus is on opportunities and limitations to implement various technological alternatives in practice, including technical solutions that go beyond constructing new connection lines. The criteria used in this technology assessment are based on the obstacles reported in the European Priority Interconnection Plan. This ensures a realistic approach based on problems encountered in real projects. Although AC overhead lines (OHL) will remain the standard solution for grid expansion, it is argued that different technology options can overcome many obstacles that OHL face. Additionally, it is illustrated that the higher investment costs for some solutions can be offset with an increased benefit, e.g. by accomplishing investments with smaller delays due to fewer obstacles encountered.

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The high voltage transmission grid is dominated by AC technology. This is justified by its technical characteristics and its cost efficiency. Although in future AC technology will still provide the core of the transmission grid, the changing context makes it ever more difficult to apply standard AC technology. Alternative technologies, such as VSC HVDC (Voltage Source Converter High Voltage Direct Current) become economically feasible. HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) is nothing new and has been applied in specific circumstances for decades. VSC HVDC is relatively new and has characteristics that can contribute to current investment problems. Therefore, VSC HVDC is no longer limited to a few niche applications and consequently should not be overlooked when an investment decision has to be taken. The aim of the paper is to illustrate that VSC HVDC is not necessarily a niche technology, but that it should be included as an option in new investment decisions.