High Voltage Direct Current Transmission Lines and Impact on Human Health

The possible health effects of electric and magnetic fields produced by high voltage alternating current power lines have been the subject of a large international research effort over the last 40 years. Overall, the results have been reassuring. No particular health effect has been reported as likely to occur at field levels below the current exposure limits. Few concerns about the possible effects of static electric and magnetic fields produced by high-voltage DC power lines (HVDC) have been expressed. This article summarizes the relevant characteristics of HVDC power lines to human exposure. It explains why the particular environment around an HVDC power line is not expected to impact human health.