The transition towards massive offshore RES generation requires multi-vendor (MV) multi-terminal (MT) HVDC grids transporting the flows of electricity to shore, and in-land, reinforcing onshore transmission systems. MT HVDC systems may ultimately form a backbone of the European electrical system providing electricity highways across Europe. Today HVDC systems of different vendors are not interoperable. Consequently, it is complex and uneconomic to connect HVDC-systems to form an interconnected and meshed grid. As synchronous generators are replaced by converter-interfaced RES, advanced functions for AC/DC converters such as grid forming controls support AC grid stability.
Interoperability is the capability of HVDC converter stations, HVDC switching stations, Power Park Modules (PPM) and other HVDC grid subsystems to operate together integrated into a system with required power quality and security of supply. It covers the operational compatibility of different technologies, e.g. between Voltage Source Converters and Modular Multi-Level Converters and among similar technologies developed by different vendors. Future HVDC systems will be modular, with common functional specifications and standard interfaces, potentially based on different technologies and/or supplied by different manufacturers.
InterOPERA is a coordinated approach between a high-level group of industry stakeholders. 4 HVDC vendors, 8 TSOs, 2 wind turbine vendors and 3 wind park developers contribute knowledge and practical skills to make future HVDC systems mutually compatible and interoperable by design, and to improve the grid forming capabilities of offshore and onshore converters.
Foreseen real HVDC projects define the demonstrator case study. The system-level design provides guidance to coordinate European grid architecture & topology ensuring seamless system expansion. Interoperability of control and protection systems will be de-risked using a real-time physical demonstrator. Concrete results will be validated through practical testing: detailed functional specifications, standardised models, simulation platforms and interaction study processes, multi-vendor cooperation agreements. Frameworks will be translated into operational and strategic tools available to all European stakeholders to develop multi-terminal HVDC grids that enhances offshore wind integration. External stakeholders and Standards agencies are involved in two-way consultation to maximise uptake of InterOPERA’s key exploitable results.
Solutions for multi-vendor project procurement, compliant with regulation, standards and laws, integrating the technical specifications and interoperability assessment tender stages, will be provided.
InterOPERA paves the way to the first real-life MVMT HVDC projects in Europe.
