Hybrid AC/DC converter for HVDC applications

A power electronic converter, for connecting AC and DC networks and transferring power therebetween, comprises: first and second DC terminals for connection in use to a DC network; at least one primary converter limb extending between the first and second DC terminals and having first and second primary limb portions separated by a primary AC terminal for connection in use to a respective phase of a multi-phase AC network, at least one of the first and second primary limb portions including at least one primary active switching module to selectively allow current to flow through the corresponding primary converter limb in a first direction from the corresponding primary AC terminal to the DC terminals and in a second direction from the DC terminals to the corresponding primary AC terminal; and at least one secondary converter limb extending between the first and second DC terminals and having first and second secondary limb portions separated by a secondary AC terminal for connection in use to a further respective phase of the said multi-phase AC network, each of the first and second secondary limb portions including at least one passive current check element to limit current flow through the corresponding secondary converter limb to a single direction from the corresponding secondary AC terminal to the DC terminals.