Hitachi Energy Launches AxoniQ to Power the Next Generation of Global Electricity Networks

New multi-terminal HVDC technology aims to transform power transmission by improving grid resilience, accelerating renewable energy integration and reducing the cost of expanding electricity networks.

Hitachi Energy has unveiled a major new technology platform designed to reshape the future of electricity transmission, announcing the launch of AxoniQ™, a next-generation portfolio of solutions for multi-terminal high-voltage direct current (MTDC) power systems.

The global electrification specialist believes the new platform will play a pivotal role in supporting rapidly growing electricity demand by enabling smarter, more flexible and highly interconnected transmission networks capable of integrating renewable energy on an unprecedented scale.

Named after the axon—the part of a nerve cell responsible for transmitting electrical impulses throughout the human body—AxoniQ has been developed to perform a similar function across tomorrow's electricity grids, intelligently directing power between multiple generation sources and demand centres.

Building the Grids of the Future

Traditional High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems have long provided efficient long-distance electricity transmission between two locations.

AxoniQ takes that concept significantly further by enabling multi-terminal DC grids, allowing electricity to flow dynamically between numerous interconnected locations rather than along a single point-to-point connection.

The technology has been designed around three complementary solutions built on advanced power electronics, intelligent control systems and high-speed protection technologies, providing operators with greater connectivity, controllability and resilience.

By allowing electricity to be rerouted instantly where demand is greatest, the system can improve asset utilisation while strengthening overall network reliability.

Supporting the Energy Transition

As renewable generation continues to expand, electricity networks are becoming increasingly complex.

Unlike conventional power stations, renewable sources such as offshore wind and solar generation are often located far from major centres of demand and produce variable levels of electricity depending on weather conditions.

Multi-terminal DC grids provide operators with greater flexibility to manage these changing power flows, reduce network congestion and improve system resilience by enabling electricity to move seamlessly between multiple generation sites, transmission corridors and consumer markets.

The technology is also expected to simplify the planning, procurement and delivery of future transmission infrastructure projects.

Boosting Capacity While Reducing Infrastructure

According to the ENTSO-E Offshore Network Development Plans 2024, electricity grids incorporating MTDC technology could increase transmission capacity by almost three times by 2040.

Achieving comparable capacity using conventional approaches would require substantially greater investment in transmission assets.

Hitachi Energy says optimised multi-terminal networks reduce the number of converter stations, transmission cables and overhead lines required while minimising land use and material consumption.

The result is a more efficient and environmentally sustainable electricity network capable of supporting long-term decarbonisation.

Real-Time Grid Intelligence

The AxoniQ portfolio enables network operators to monitor and manage electricity flows in real time.

Its advanced control systems can rapidly reroute power around faults, isolate damaged sections of the network and maintain continuity of supply without widespread disruption.

By reducing the likelihood of major outages, the technology offers significant operational and economic benefits for utilities as electricity systems become increasingly interconnected across national borders.

Engineered around open interoperability standards, the platform has also been designed to remain compatible with future generations of HVDC infrastructure as transmission networks continue to evolve.

Supporting Global Investment

The launch comes as governments and transmission system operators around the world significantly increase investment in electricity infrastructure to improve energy security and support the transition to net zero.

Growing renewable generation, expanding electrification of transport and industry, and rising electricity consumption are placing unprecedented demands on transmission networks.

Hitachi Energy believes technologies such as AxoniQ will be fundamental to creating the flexible, resilient infrastructure needed to meet those challenges.

A Decade of Development

AxoniQ represents the culmination of more than ten years of research and development, with the technology refined through collaboration with transmission system operators and leading industry partners.

The company says these partnerships have focused on ensuring future HVDC systems are interoperable by design, allowing different technologies and network operators to work together more effectively as international electricity grids become increasingly connected.

Industry Perspective

Niklas Persson, Chief Executive of Hitachi Energy's Grid Integration Business Unit, said the growing complexity of modern electricity systems requires a new generation of transmission technology.

"Electricity networks are becoming increasingly complex as renewable generation grows and demand patterns evolve. AxoniQ represents a milestone in the evolution of DC grids, enabling the next generation of HVDC systems, helping grid operators integrate renewable power more reliably and affordably while improving grid resilience and transmission efficiency.

"Hitachi Energy is pioneering the new technology needed today and helping ensure future prosperity."

Driving the Electrified Future

AxoniQ forms part of Hitachi Energy's wider Grid-enSure® portfolio, which is designed to strengthen transmission networks, stabilise electricity systems and help overcome capacity constraints.

As countries continue investing in renewable energy and modern transmission infrastructure, technologies capable of intelligently managing increasingly complex power flows are expected to become central to the future of global energy systems.

With electricity demand forecast to continue rising for decades to come, Hitachi Energy believes AxoniQ provides the foundation for a new era of smarter, more resilient and more sustainable transmission networks capable of supporting the world's accelerating transition to electrification.