Abstract

The intensive integration of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) is driving fundamental changes in the existing transmission infrastructure to adapt to new demands. Frequently, overhead AC transmission lines lack sufficient transmission capacity and flexibility to handle the increasing strain from large-scale RES integration. This can negatively impact the redispatch and dispatch costs, congestion management, system stability, and overall rreliability and esilience. In Europe, obtaining permits and Rights of Way (RoW) for new overhead lines (OHL) is challenging, as reflected in ENTSO-E’s development plans. When constructing new lines is not feasible, converting existing HVAC OHL to HVDC emerges as a viable alternative. This approach utilizes existing towers and RoW, allowing for efficient transmission line reinforcement. Compared to traditional HVAC reinforcement, HVDC can be cost-competitive for distances as short as 200 km, even with a capacity increase as low as 10%. Beyond increased ampacity, HVDC technology—particularly with Voltage Source Converter (VSC) systems—offers additional benefits for power system control, including improved stability and flexibility. Currently the methodology and standards lack information on how to make the conversion from AC to DC, especially in a case of hybrid AC/DC OHL, or in a case where there are OHL and cable section in the same link. Morevoer, existing studies and project on OHL conversion are for point to point system only. This presentation will cover the main benefits and challenges of AC to DC OHL conversion, with a technical focus on insulation coordination for the dedicated metallic return.

Alberto Bertinato & Alain Xemard

Presented at IEEE PES GM

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