| Abstract |
The UK’s electricity transmission and distribution systems have little spare capacity to accommodate the widespread changes in volume and location of power flows arising from planned changes in generation type and characteristics, and from major changes in demand patterns. Gaining consents for the construction of new overhead lines is extremely time-consuming and costly. Without action, this will increasingly constrain the necessary changes in generation and demand.
The ‘Network Capacity’ project has assessed the feasibility of using new technologies now emerging in the marketplace or in development, including multi-terminal HVDC systems, in novel ways in order to provide increased Transmission & Distribution system capacity and improved management of network power flows, in order to facilitate increased renewable energy installation levels in the UK.
This document reports the results of an initial review addressing the feasibility of deploying MT-HVDC systems into the UK transmission system, focusing on the practicalities of conversion of existing AC lines to HVDC, harmonic issues, DC cable technology and multi-terminal system control. It begins on page 11, and is structured as follows:- Section 2: The conversion process and the resulting harmonics generated at HVdc terminals, and filtering requirements and the relevant standards.
- Section 3: Options, issues and experience with conversion of AC overhead linesto HVDC lines.
- Section 4: HVDC cable technology
- Section 5: Multi-terminal HVSC controls.
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