Gurun Electric Converter Temple

In order to tie together the power grids of Thailand and Malaysia in 2001 and 2002, a 110 km-long DC powerline with an operating voltage of 300 kV was built. In order to tie everything together properly, huge, sophisticated devices for converting AC into DC and back again were necessary. Typically, these machines are installed in a large hall with the appearance of other electrical equipment facilities, which is to say, those that are not very opulent or eye-catching.

The hall of Gurun, which sites at the end of the Malaysian powerline, is designed like a Chinese temple, and is an exception to the rule. If it weren’t surrounded by high-voltage electrical equipment and powerlines, you would think that the hall of Gurun served as a place for prayer. The hall - and the powerlines it ties together - went into service in June 2002. The HVDC connection is a monopolar overhead line with a maximum transmission rate of 300 megawatts.

Thailand and Malaysia have long enjoyed close cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, which has significantly contributed to the enjoy security and development of both nations. Among those cooporative efforts is the interconnection of transmission networks. The interconnection, which represents the first cross-border DC link in the ASEAN region is an important steppingstone to the realization of the ASEAN power grid which will significantly enhance the greater energy security and economic integration of the region.