SSEN Transmission expands HVDC technology centre in Scotland
UK, Scotland, Cumbernauld: An extension of SSEN Transmission’s simulation, testing and training center for HVDC systems is now open.
Image source: T&D World
UK, Scotland, Cumbernauld: An extension of SSEN Transmission’s simulation, testing and training center for HVDC systems is now open.
The centre’s extension, located in Cumbernauld, Scotland, allows the energy industry to expand its collaboration capabilities in modelling and de-risking the use of HVDC converters, overhead lines and cables within the electricity network in Great Britain.
Established in 2017, the National HVDC Centre is the first facility of its kind in the UK and uses developing technology to test the use of HVDC on the GB transmission network which will be vital to support the UK and Scotland’s offshore wind ambitions and enable the transition to net zero emissions.
HVDC is generally the most efficient way to transport electricity over long distances, and it is particularly beneficial for subsea transmission, which will be vital to reinforce the GB grid to support the connection of ScotWind projects and wider GB offshore wind ambitions as outlined in the UK Government’s British Energy Security Strategy.
The work undertaken at the national HVDC centre will also support delivery of the National Grid ESO’s Pathway to 2030 publication, which will enable the progression of innovative Pathfinder projects through BEIS’ Offshore Transmission Network Review Early Opportunities workstream.
The first tranche of Pathfinder projects includes SSEN Transmission’s new HVDC Switching Station Project Aquila – a project at Peterhead which is a multi-vendor operation of a DC network.
“The National HVDC Centre in Cumbernauld is playing a critical role in the UK’s transition to net zero, creating innovative and more efficient electricity networks of the future. As we connect the renewable energy needed to enable this transition at scale and pace, the requirement for HVDC technology will substantially increase to meet the UK Government’s 50 GW offshore wind target by 2030 and support delivery of the British Energy Security Strategy,” said Rob McDonald, Managing Director of SSEN Transmission.
Source: T&D World
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