Description

The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) is offering funding through the DC-GRIDS SBIR/STTR program to develop transformative direct current (DC) converter technologies that enable a resilient, sustainable, and expanded U.S. electric grid infrastructure. The program targets the creation of a multi-terminal high-voltage direct current (MT-HVDC) transmission macrogrid capable of multi-directional power routing and flexible interconnections between existing and new alternating current (AC) and DC lines. This infrastructure aims to accelerate offshore power transmission, convert existing HVAC corridors to HVDC, and interconnect the three major U.S. electrical grids, thereby increasing grid capacity, resiliency, and performance.

Key challenges addressed include reducing the high costs and large physical footprints of current HVDC equipment, overcoming lack of domestic supply chains, and improving system-level controls and interoperability. The program emphasizes disruptive technologies that can create new learning curves and market impacts, rather than incremental improvements.

The program is divided into two technical categories:

• Category A: Development of novel submodules and modular high-voltage power electronic valves that are low-cost, vendor-agnostic, plug-and-play, and interoperable within the same HVDC converter station. This aims to drive down costs and enable wider deployment.

• Category B: Technologies enabling highly compact multi-terminal converter stations, including conversion of existing AC substations into HVDC converter stations with significantly reduced footprint and volume, improving grid flexibility and resiliency.

The program supports applied research and development with a focus on high-risk, high-reward projects that demonstrate clear pathways to commercial impact.