Hitachi Energy to upgrade the Directlink HVDC transmission system, vital for the energy transition

The Directlink interconnector is an important asset for the energy transition. It is only one of two electricity transmission interconnectors between Queensland and New South Wales that allows energy to be exchanged between the two states. It also provides services that improve power quality, reduce losses, and increase reliability. The interconnector enables the state to share electricity from the National Electricity Market to manage better supply and demand, based on the market price.

HVDC technology allows transportation of large amounts of electricity over long distances with minimum losses. Hitachi Energy will upgrade one of the three HVDC transmission systems that form part of the interconnector, replacing IGBT valves that convert electricity from AC to DC and vice versa. The converter station being upgraded is in Bungalora in northern NSW.

This will be one of the world’s first HVDC Light^® valve upgrades, mixing generations of older and newer technologies to extend the life of important electricity infrastructure. In the long run, extending the life of existing assets helps reduce pressure on electricity prices and simultaneously reduces the environmental impact.

The Hitachi Energy HVDC Light^® technology was developed in the late 1990s. Directlink was the first station using this technology in Australia and the second in the world (the first was in Gotland, Sweden). Since then, Voltage Source Converter (VSC) technology has evolved and the new HVDC Light^® generation will extend Directlink’s asset life. This delays the need for asset replacement, which is expensive, and the costs need to be reflected in the price customers pay for electricity.

The intention is that Directlink will be the first of several transmission system upgrades in Australia, which will extend the life of these assets. Older HVDC assets in various locations around the world, including the US and Europe, will replicate this approach.

The project will be completed within 3 years.

Note to editors:

Hitachi Energy’s HVDC solution combines world-leading expertise in HVDC converter valves; the MACH™ digital control platform*4, converter power transformers and high-voltage switchgear; as well as system studies, design and engineering, supply, installation supervision and commissioning.

HVDC Light^® is a voltage source converter technology developed by Hitachi Energy, which was launched over 25 years ago. It is the preferred technology for many grid applications, including interconnecting countries, integrating renewables and “power-from-shore” connections to offshore production facilities. HVDC Light’s defining features include uniquely compact converter stations and exceptionally low electrical losses.

Hitachi Energy pioneered commercial HVDC technology almost 70 years ago and has delivered more than half of the world’s HVDC projects.