What is HVDC Transmission? - Types, Advantages, Disadvantages & Applications

What is an HVDC Transmission System?

HVDC, which stands for High-Voltage Direct Current, is a method of transmitting electrical power over long distances using direct current (DC) instead of alternating current (AC). HVDC transmission systems have gained significance in the field of electrical engineering due to their unique advantages and ability to overcome certain limitations associated with traditional AC transmission.

By comparing AC and DC transmission, it is clear that for transmission of power over long distances AC is not very suitable, and for generation and utilization of power, DC is not favorable compared to AC.

Principle of HVDC Transmission System

The principle of HVDC (High-Voltage Direct Current) transmission is based on the conversion of alternating current (AC) power to direct current (DC) power at the transmitting end and the reconversion of DC back to AC at the receiving end. This method of electrical power transmission offers several advantages over traditional AC transmission systems, especially for long-distance and high-capacity transmission. Here’s a more detailed explanation of the principles behind HVDC transmission:

Conversion at the Transmitting End (Rectification):

The first step in an HVDC transmission system is to convert the incoming AC power to DC power at the transmitting end, often referred to as the “rectifier station.”
This conversion is achieved using semiconductor devices called thyristors or diodes arranged in a specific configuration. Thyristors are preferred for their ability to handle high voltages and currents.
The role of the rectifier station is to rectify the incoming AC power, meaning it converts the AC waveform into a continuous DC voltage.

DC Transmission Line:

The DC power generated by the rectifier station is then transmitted through high-voltage DC transmission lines to the receiving end.
Unlike AC lines, which periodically reverse direction (from positive to negative), DC lines maintain a constant polarity, allowing for efficient long-distance transmission with lower losses.

Conversion at the Receiving End (Inversion):

At the receiving end of the HVDC transmission system, there is an “inverter station” that converts the DC power back into AC power suitable for distribution or integration into the local AC grid.
Similar to the rectifier station, the inverter station uses semiconductor devices (usually thyristors) to switch and control the flow of DC power.
The inverter station generates an AC waveform with the desired voltage, frequency, and phase, which is then synchronized with the local grid.

Control and Regulation:

Throughout the HVDC transmission process, control systems continuously monitor and regulate the power flow, voltage levels, and other parameters to ensure efficient and reliable operation.
These control systems use feedback mechanisms to adjust the firing of thyristors in the rectifier and inverter stations to control the flow of power.

Advantages of HVDC Transmission:

Reduced Electrical Losses: HVDC systems experience lower electrical losses over long distances compared to equivalent AC transmission lines.
Long-Distance Transmission: HVDC is particularly suitable for transmitting electricity over vast distances.
Control and Stability: HVDC systems offer precise control over power flow and voltage levels, contributing to grid stability.
Interconnection of Asynchronous Grids: HVDC can interconnect grids with different frequencies or phases, enabling grid integration between regions with varying power system characteristics.

In summary, the principle of HVDC transmission revolves around the efficient conversion of AC power to DC power at the transmitting end, the transmission of DC power over long distances, and the reconversion of DC power back to AC at the receiving end. This technology plays a crucial role in modern electricity networks, especially for interconnecting grids and transmitting power over challenging geographical terrains.

APPLICATIONS OF HIGH-VOLTAGE DC TRANSMISSION

1) CONNECTING REMOTE GENERATION

Some energy sources, such as hydro and solar power, are often located hundreds or thousands of kilometers away from the load centers. HVDC will reliably deliver electricity generated from mountain tops, deserts, and seas across vast distances with low losses.

2) INTERCONNECTING GRIDS

Connecting AC grids is done for stabilization purposes and to allow energy trading. During some specific circumstances, the connection has to be done using HVDC, for example when the grids have different frequencies or when the connection has to go long distances over water and AC cables cannot be used because of the high losses.

3) CONNECTING OFFSHORE WIND

Wind parks are often placed far out at sea because the wind conditions are more advantageous there. If the distance to the grid on land exceeds a certain stretch, the only possible solution is HVDC – due to the technology’s low losses.

4) POWER FROM SHORE

Traditionally, oil and gas platforms use local generation to supply the electricity needed to run the drilling equipment and for the daily need of often hundreds of persons working on the platform. If the power is instead supplied from shore, via an HVDC link, costs go down, emissions are lower and the working conditions on the platform are improved.

5) DC LINKS IN AC GRIDS

HVDC links within an AC grid can be successfully utilized to strengthen the entire transmission grid, especially under demanding load conditions and during system disturbances. Transmission capacity will improve and bottlenecks be dissolved.

6) CITY-CENTER INFEED

HVDC systems are ideal for feeding electricity into densely populated urban centers. Because it is possible to use land cables, the transmission is invisible, thus avoiding the opposition and uncertain approval of overhead lines.

7) CONNECTING REMOTE LOADS

Islands and remotely located mines often have the disadvantage of a weak surrounding AC grid. Feeding power into the grid with an HVDC link improves stability and even prevents blackouts.