Hitachi ABB Power Grids wins HVDC order linking Shetland Islands to the UK grid

Hitachi ABB Power Grids has won an order from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Transmission to enable Europe's first multi-terminal high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) interconnection.

As part of the project, the manufacturer will deliver and commission an HVDC system, facilitating a multi-terminal link, providing flexibility to transfer power in multiple directions with minimal power losses.

The HVDC system will convert the harnessed wind power from alternating current to direct current at an HVDC converter station. This power will then be transmitted via underground and subsea cables to an HVDC switching station at Caithness, in the north of Scotland. It will then be transferred via the Caithness Moray HVDC link before being converted back to alternating current for onward transmission to meet electricity demand in the north of Scotland and beyond, forming a three terminal DC-system.

The link, which will connect Shetland to the UK transmission system for the first time, will enhance security of power supply and help transmit wind power generated on the islands, contributing to the UK's decarbonization target of bringing all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.

The HVDC connection will play a key role in the development of Shetland's renewable energy potential by connecting it to what will be the UK's largest onshore windfarm. Scheduled for completion in 2024, the system is enabled for future connections and integration of more renewables.

Source: Hitachi ABB Power Grids