HVDC PLUS (VSC) - HVDC

A new approach for new challenges: Transmission systems need to live up to new challenges in the wake of decarbonization, decentralization, and digitalization: A growing number of large-scale offshore wind farms needs to be connected to the grids, strained AC grids must be stabilized to ensure reliable operation, energy-hungry megacities require low-loss power supply solutions. This is where Siemens Energy's outstandingly compact HVDC PLUS technology comes into its own. Based on trendsetting modular multilevel voltage-sourced converters, it is blazing the trail for modern trends in HVDC transmission by making it possible to combine the advantages of HVDC transmission with extra benefits such as AC voltage control, black start capability, and other functions that improve the performance and security of any transmission system.

The smart answer to new challenges in complex transmission systems

Full four-quadrant operation for independent, flexible active and reactive power control
Flexible AC voltage control to support weak AC networks
Ability to contribute to network fault currents in case of network faults and to black-start shut-down networks
During AC transmission network restoration (for example, after a blackout), HVDC PLUS can provide system recovery ancillary service (SRAS)
HVDC PLUS technology establishes a firewall against cascading system disturbances
Ideal support for AC grids with low short-circuit levels and for the supply of fully passive systems
Suitable for back-to-back operation as well as for long-distance cable and OHL HVDC transmission
Can be integrated into multi-terminal HVDC systems and future HVDC grids

Modular-Multilevel-Converter (MMC)

The Modular Multilevel Converter, introduced for HVDC by Siemens Energy more than a decade ago, is the well-established standard for high voltage, high power VSC applications today.

In Siemens Energy HVDC PLUS systems, one modular multilevel converter comprises three Single-phase inverter. One converter comprises three identical phase units with two converter arms, and each converter arm contains a number of sub modules supporting the full DC voltage. Each sub modul contributes only a small voltage step and is controlled individually. Practically speaking, each module within an MMC is a discrete voltage source with a local capacitor to define its voltage step without creating ripple voltage distortion across the converter’s other phases. This way it is possible to achieve the required sinusoidal AC and smooth DC side output voltage waveforms without excessive harmonic distortion and HF noise.

The insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) at the heart of the sub modules are fully controllable. This enables modular multilevel converters to absorb and generate reactive power independently from active power up to the converter rating. The output currents can be varied over the complete operating range in a smooth, linear way. This enables independent and very flexible control of active and reactive power, which supports the connected AC grid.

Half-bridge topology (HB)

The half-bridge topology is primarily used for cable connections and for back-to-back systems. The DC voltage of a half-bridge sub modules is always controlled and the power capacitor can be connected to the terminals in one polarity. Consequentially, the DC voltage is always higher than the AC voltage.

HVDC PLUS systems with half-bridge topology have proven their high efficiency and reliability in DC cable connection projects such as

the Trans Bay Cable between San Francisco and Pittsburg in the U.S., the world’s first HVDC system based on Siemens Energy’s trendsetting MMC topology
the INELFE electricity interconnection between France and Spain, the world’s biggest MMC-based HVDC system with two symmetrical monopoles and a capacity of 1.000 MW each
various grid connections of offshore wind farms in Germany
Half-bridge MMC is also used for DC OHL applications, where DC line fault clearing and recovery is performed by operating the AC switchgear. One example is the PK2000 electricity interconnection between Pugalur (Tamil Nadu) and Thrissur (Kerala) in India, the world’s biggest MMC-based HVDC system with two symmetrical monopoles and a capacity of 1.000 MW each, featuring a combination of OHL of 138 km route length and cable of 28 km route length.

Full-bridge topology (FB)

In full-bridge topology, the DC voltage is independent of the AC voltage, because the power capacitors can be connected to the terminals in either polarity. This way, the DC voltage can be reduced to zero and even entirely reversed, while current control on the AC and DC sides is maintained even under short-circuit conditions.

The full-bridge topology is the ideal solution for HVDC systems that work with overhead lines. It makes it possible to clear DC line faults safely by reverting the voltage for a short time for current extinction and electric arc deionization. It also enables HVDC system operation at reduced DC voltage levels, which helps tackle problems caused by polluted line insulators. The break time and the rate-of-rise of the DC voltage during recovery can be variably adapted to the dielectric strength – a flexible strategy that significantly increases supply security.

Siemens Energy has been successfully using the full-bridge circuit for Sitras® static frequency converters for traction power supply as well as for numerous FACTS and industrial installations with SVC PLUS® since 2009.

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HVDC PLUS

Improve grid performance with flexible HVDC technology

The smart answer to new challenges in complex transmission systems

Outstanding versatility

High flexibility

Favorable CAPEX and OPEX

Modular-Multilevel-Converter (MMC)

Half-bridge topology (HB)

Full-bridge topology (FB)

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