Accelerating the energy transition through research and innovation in HVDC technology
Etch connects industry, academia, and system operators in a collaborative partnership programme to advance innovation in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems and underground cables — key enablers of Europe’s 2050 climate goals.
Our key objectives
Innovative Technological Solutions
We advance the adoption of cutting-edge HVDC and cable technologies through focused R&D.
Foster Collaboration
A competence hub connecting R&D entities, manufacturers, solution providers, and TSOs at national and international levels.
Enhance Economic Value Creation
Enable industries to capitalize on R&D outcomes and strengthen Europe’s energy value chain.
Develop Talent and Training
Provide specialized training and knowledge-sharing programmes to prepare the next generation of energy engineers.
Create an Ecosystem of Expertise
Cultivate a dynamic environment for innovation and cross-sector learning.
Facilitating Research and Innovation to Accelerate the Energy Transition
The Etch Partnership Programme is designed to strengthen collaboration between industry and research. We bring together transmission system operators (TSOs), manufacturers, technology providers, and academic partners to drive innovation, develop skills, and create economic value through R&D excellence in HVDC and underground cable technologies.
A Market-Neutral Competence Hub Backed by Excellence
- Strong Team
Led by renowned researchers with two decades of HVDC innovation.
Dirk Van Hertem (Director) · Jef Beerten (Scientific Director) · Hakan Ergun (Professor) - Partner-Centric Solutions
Translating partner needs into creative, out-of-the-box R&D solutions bridging industrial and scientific worlds. - HVDC Research Leadership
Frontrunners in HVDC innovation with a world-class record in publications, models, and simulation tools. - R&D Excellence
Delivering top-tier research outcomes that accelerate our partners’ technology development. - Scientific Leadership
Active contributors and coordinators in international workgroups: CIGRE, IEEE, IEC, and SET Plan.
Building a Growing Industrial Ecosystem
Our network of partners represents Europe’s most forward-thinking players in the energy transmission landscape. Together, we are developing the knowledge and technology for tomorrow’s HVDC grid.
Why become a member?
Joining the Etch Partnership Programme gives your organisation a straightforward way to stay close to HVDC work and have a say in where it goes. You’re not just watching from the side; you’re part of the discussion.
- Early access to HVDC knowledge & insights
- Participate in Collaborative Research Projects (CRP)
- Shape the roadmap of tomorrow
- Benefiting from public funding through joint R&D
- Free access to all Etch events
- Bilateral or multilateral R&D projects
- PhD projects
- HVDC training (general or tailor-made)
- Access to the Simulation Lab
