High voltage direct current (HVDC) networks are a key technology for the transition to clean and sustainable energy. These networks allow electricity to be transported over long distances with minimal losses, making them ideal for connecting renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar energy, to existing electrical grids.
In Europe, HVDC networks are rapidly gaining ground. In 2022, there were more than 10,000 kilometers of HVDC networks in operation in Europe, and this figure is expected to increase to more than 20,000 kilometers by 2030.
HVDC networks offer a number of advantages over alternating current (AC) networks:
- Lower losses: These networks can transport electricity over long distances with minimal losses, making them ideal for connecting renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, to existing power grids. It is much easier to transport electrical energy from a platform in the sea, using an underwater cable.
- Higher capacity: HVDC networks can transport more electricity than AC networks, making them ideal for connecting large renewable energy plants to power grids.
- Greater reliability: These networks are more reliable than AC networks, making them ideal for transporting electricity across remote areas or areas that are prone to natural disasters.
As you can see in the photo, with these networks distant countries or cities can be interconnected in a simpler and more efficient way.
And a simple scheme would be:
HVDC networks are used for a wide range of applications in Europe, including:
- Connecting renewable energy sources: these networks are used to connect wind and solar farms to existing electricity networks. This helps integrate renewable energy sources into the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- Interconnection of electrical networks: They are also used to connect electrical networks of different countries. This helps improve the security of power supply and reduce electricity prices.
- Supplying power to remote areas: HVDC networks are used to supply power to remote areas that do not have access to electricity.
HVDC networks are expected to continue expanding in Europe in the coming years. This is due to a number of factors, including:
- The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources: Renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar energy, are increasingly important in the European energy mix. HVDC networks are necessary to connect these energy sources to existing power grids.
- The need to improve security of power supply: These networks are more reliable than AC networks, making them ideal for transporting electricity across remote areas or areas that are prone to natural disasters.
- Reducing costs: The costs of these networks are decreasing, making them more affordable for electricity grid operators.
In conclusion we can say that HVDC networks are a key technology for the transition to clean and sustainable energy. These networks are rapidly gaining ground in Europe and are expected to continue to spread in the coming years.
But of course for users this is totally transparent, and most are unaware of the enormous technological change that is taking place without our knowledge.
And for those who had no idea about the subject, now can say they know something.
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