DNV GL Welcomes HVDC Gas Insulated Switchgear Prototype

DNV GL has completed the installation of the 320kV high-voltage direct current gas insulated switchgear (GIS) prototype at its KEMA High Voltage DC Laboratory in Arnhem, Netherlands, as part of the PROMOTioN project.

Long-term testing will begin later this year with the aim of independently verifying and demonstrating that the technology is ready for real-world application and can achieve cost savings in future offshore HVDC converter stations and switchyards.

According to DNV GL, the coordinator of the PROMOTioN project, this is the first time that such equipment will be tested in an independent commercial laboratory.

The benefit of using gas insulated switchgear over conventional air-insulated technology is a 70% to 95% reduction in required volume, realizing considerable cost-savings in applications where space comes at a premium such as offshore or in urban environments, the Norwegian company said.

“DNV GL’s high-voltage equipment expertise, testing know-how and independent position supports the industry wide adoption of the proposed test programme. This enables HVDC GIS to make a significant increase on the technology readiness level ladder which is a necessary step towards solving the trilemma of a clean, affordable and reliable energy transition in Europe,” said Bas Verhoeven, Business Director of DNV GL’s KEMA High Voltage Laboratory.

Although gas-insulated technology for alternating current (AC) applications is mature, the application to HVDC is not due to a lack of operational experience, standardized test programs, and commercially available products.

However, HVDC GIS is anticipated to play a key role in achieving the EU’s renewable energy and interconnection targets by enabling the cost-effective connection of remote offshore wind farms and submarine links.

The PROMOTioN project is focused on tackling technical, regulatory, financial and legal challenges to the implementation of offshore meshed HVDC transmission networks. The consortium comprises 33 partners, including European HVDC equipment manufacturers, TSOs, academia, test labs and consultants.