One circuit includes first and second primary terminals for connection to first and second power transmission lines and a current transmission path extending between the primary terminals and having current transmission path portions separated by a third primary terminal. A first current transmission path portion includes at least one primary switching element connected in series between the first and third primary terminals, the second current transmission path portion includes an energy conversion block connected between the second and third primary terminals, and the energy conversion block includes at least one primary energy conversion element for removing energy from the power transmission lines. The control circuit further includes a converter limb connected across the second and third primary terminals that includes an auxiliary converter. The control circuit further includes a control unit which controls the auxiliary converter to selectively provide a voltage source.