Development of MVDC, HVDC and High-Power Transmission systems and components for a resilient grid

Projects are expected to implement the activities in (1) or in (2) and the corresponding practical demonstration in (3) as described below:

1. R&I, methodologies and tools involving the activities listed below. These can be developed/complemented with others pertinent to the topic:

• Development of smaller, more compact and/or lower voltage, higher current converter topologies, including floating that can result in significant cost savings offshore.
• Technical analysis of trade-offs in performance, ambient condition impact, maintenance, reliability, dimensioning, testing procedures, etc.
• Demonstration of enhancement of AC system stability and AC system frequency by providing sustainable energy storage systems interfaced to MVDC, HVDC and/or High Power Transmission systems.
• Assessment of technical and economic feasibility of application of DC breakers in MTDC systems.
• Demonstration of DC fault ride through capabilities in MTDC systems by using DC breakers.
• Assessment of potential new converter topologies addressing future offshore developments with the aim of reducing the CAPEX and OPEX of the investments, and with increased fault current capabilities.

2. Boost SF6-free technologies in high and medium voltage equipment, as well as a regulatory roadmap for replacement and new assets (HV: TRL 4-5; MV: TRL 6-8):

• Investigation and development of switchgears using SF6-free technology with low impact on GWP. Alternative SF6 gases with low environmental impact while at the same time ensuring low space occupancy for offshore applications on platforms.
• Assessment of grid resilience and the economic and environmental impact of replacement and new installation rollout options (timeline, perspective of global market, grid reliability and full lifecycle impact).
• Regulatory recommendations at EU level to cope with financial risks inherent with putting novel technologies into the system and transition time options to move from SF6 to SF6-free technology for new equipment.
• Investigation and development of an SF6-free gas-insulated substation or air-insulated SF6-free instrument transformers or switchgear at different voltage levels.

3. Demonstration, test and validation of the activities developed in (1) or in (2) in at least two pilots in different EU Member States/Associated Countries.

The selected projects are expected to contribute to the BRIDGE initiative[[https://www.h2020-bridge.eu/]] actively participate to its activities and allocate up to 2% of their budgets to that end. Additional contributions to the ‘Alliance for Internet of Things Innovation’ (AIOTI) and other relevant activities (e.g. clusters of digital projects and coordinating actions) might be considered, when relevant.