The Classic HVDC Transmission

The HVDC technology (High Voltage Direct Current) is used to transmit electricity over long distances by overhead transmission lines or submarine cables. It is also used to interconnect separate power systems, where traditional alternating current (AC) connections can not be used. ABB pioneered the HVDC technology and is the undisputed world leader in the HVDC field.

In a high voltage direct current (HVDC) system, electric power is taken from one point in a three-phase AC network, converted to DC in a converter station, transmitted to the receiving point by an overhead line or cable and then converted back to AC in another converter station and injected into the receiving AC network. Typically, an HVDC transmission has a rated power of more than 100 MW and many are in the 1,000 - 3,000 MW range.

HVDC transmissions are used for transmission of power over long or very long distances, because it then becomes economically attractive over conventional AC lines.

With an HVDC system, the power flow can be controlled rapidly and accurately as to both the power level and the direction. This possibility is often used in order to improve the performance and efficiency of the connected AC networks.

The increased interest in recent years for transporting clean and renewable energy from remote hydro generation plants has also increased the interest in higher DC transmission voltage than presently used (i.e. 600 kV DC). This has led to development of Ultra High Voltage Direct Current (UHVDC) at 800 kV DC.

800 kV Ultra High Voltage Direct Current (UHVDC) transmissions are economically attractive for bulk power transmissions of 5,000 – 8,000 MW over 1,000 – 1,500 km or above. 800 kV HVDC transmission projects are already in execution phase, and 800 kV is now an established voltage level for bulk power transmission over long distances.