HVDC Technology

15.03.2025

HVDC PLUS® Technology

HVDC PLUS® is a modern technology based on modular multilevel converters (MMC). This technology is designed for transmitting large amounts of energy over long distances with high efficiency.

Advantages of HVDC PLUS®

- High Efficiency: HVDC PLUS® systems achieve up to 99% efficiency, meaning almost all transmitted energy is effectively utilized.
- Support for Renewable Energy: This technology is ideal for connecting remote renewable energy sources, such as wind farms and solar power plants, to national power grids.
- Improved Grid Stability: HVDC PLUS® provides flexible control of active and reactive power, enhancing the stability of electrical grids.
- Benefits for Urban Areas: This technology is perfect for supplying urban areas with minimal energy losses.

Applications of HVDC PLUS®

Long-Distance Energy Transmission: HVDC PLUS® is most efficient for transmitting energy over long distances.
Connecting Asynchronous Grids: HVDC PLUS® can connect grids with different frequencies and provide protection against outage propagation.
Support for Renewable Energy: HVDC PLUS® facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources into existing power grids.

Technical Details

Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC): This technology is based on modular multilevel converters, which allow flexible control and high efficiency.
Symmetric Monopole: This configuration is known for its simplicity and reliability. It helps reduce ground currents and minimize their environmental impacts.

HVDC PLUS® is truly a key technology for the future of power grids, and its ability to transmit large amounts of energy with minimal losses makes it ideal for supporting a sustainable energy system.

⚡ Siemens HVDC: Transformer with a Capacity of 12,000 MW 🌍

Siemens High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology can transmit enormous amounts of electricity over long distances with incredible efficiency:

🔹 Capacity: Siemens HVDC systems can transmit up to 12,000 MW (megawatts) of energy, enough to power millions of households!

🔹 Reach: HVDC can transmit energy over thousands of kilometers, significantly reducing energy losses compared to traditional alternating current systems.

🔹Efficiency: With an efficiency of up to 99%, it plays a key role in connecting remote renewable energy sources to national grids.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=654673060217081&set=a.237068858644172

Transmitting such a large amount of energy, like 12 GW, requires advanced technologies and materials that enable high efficiency and safety. The cables used for HVDC transmission have several specific properties that allow them to handle such demands.

Properties of HVDC Cables

High-Voltage Insulation: Cables are constructed using special insulating materials that safely handle high voltage without breakdowns or other issues.
Cooling: To prevent overheating, some HVDC cables have active or passive cooling systems. This helps dissipate heat and maintain stable operating temperatures.
High-Conductivity Materials: Conductors are made from materials like aluminum or copper, which have high conductivity and allow the transmission of large amounts of energy with minimal losses.
Multi-Core Designs: Instead of one massive conductor, multi-core designs are often used, where several smaller conductors are arranged into one cable. This improves flexibility and simplifies installation.
Special Designs: HVDC cables can have various design features, such as conductive layers, moisture barriers, and other protective layers, ensuring long life and reliability.

Examples of Use

Submarine Cables: HVDC technology is often used for submarine energy transmission, such as between continents or from remote offshore wind farms. For example, the NordLink submarine cable between Germany and Norway.
Underground Cables: HVDC cables can also be laid underground, which is advantageous in urban areas where space is limited.

Technical Challenges and Advances

Transmitting 12 GW of energy is technically demanding, but thanks to continuous innovations in materials and technologies, these challenges are solvable. The development of new insulating materials, improved cooling, and advances in cable design enable efficient and safe transmission of such large amounts of energy.