Step change in cost and size for powerful HVDC offshore wind connections

摘要

Presently, nine HVDC offshore stations have been installed in North Sea conditions, all facing various challenges and a high level of uncertainty during their execution in relation to cost, schedule and quality. This situation is not acceptable or sustainable for any of the stakeholders in the system. ABB has developed a modular topside structure, including well defined interfaces and a high level of flexibility in relation to installation vessels and yards. Additionally, the weight and volume have been decreased by 50%, the number of systemsoffshore minimized and the offshore hook-up scope is limited. Testing will as far as possible be completed onshore. The required functionality in the AC stations has been integrated into the new HVDC station, by using 66 kV, and thereby no AC stations are required in this system. Health and safety is a primary factor and the concept has received approval in-principle from Lloyds. This offshore station represents a great step change and a new paradigm for offshore HVDC platforms whilst also reducing risk, enabling execution and retaining full HVDC functionality.