Researchers: Stijn Cole, Dirk Van Hertem, Jef Beerten
Supervision: Ronnie Belmans

Description. This project investigates the applicability of the recently developed VSC HVDC (Voltage Source Converter High Voltage Direct Current) for bulk power transfer. The technology is compared to more traditional transmission system investments such as overhead lines and ac undergrounding. With their controllability and unobstructive nature (fully underground), VSC HVDC offers some advantages over ac technology, while its limited power rating and high investment cost are clear disadvantages.

The project consists of several subprojects, investigating a specific investment in an existing power system.

Disclaimer. Although this project is funded by ABB, the results obtained are independent. The study is ordered, but the results are not.

Subprojects. Randstad:

The randstad project is an ambitious project of the Dutch system operator TenneT to reinforce the power system. Part of this plan consists of the introduction of a new connection between the 380 kV substations of Beverwijk and Bleiswijk (distance roughly 60 km). The feasibility of an installation of a VSC HVDC link between these two substations is investigated.