DNV-led JIP aiming to expand HVDC connections for US wind projects

Offshore staff

OSLO, Norway — DNV has launched a joint industry project (JIP) to investigate new electrical standards and standardization requirements for the connection of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission to the US’ electricity grid.

During Phase 1, DNV and the 10 participants will compile an inventory of and determine the main technical issues impeding timely and efficient application of HVDC transmission. They will then seek to identify a stakeholder body that could implement a solution.

The 10 JIP members, all developers, are Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, EDF Renewables, Equinor, Invenergy, National Grid Ventures, Ocean Winds, PPL TransLink WindGrid, RWE, Shell and TotalEnergies.

At present HVDC transmission is not widespread in the US, and according to DNV, there are barriers to further development that could impact long-term take-up of new projects.

Its recent Energy Transition North America report claimed the US would not achieve its clean energy goals without modernizing the nation’s power grid, and it identified the need for more than 5,900 miles of HVDC subsea transmission cables to promote efficient offshore wind development by mid-century.

Richard S. Barnes, DNV region president, Energy Systems North America, said, “It doesn’t matter how much clean power generation capacity is online if there is no low-cost, reliable way to get that energy to the grid. HVDC transmission is a key part of the solution…”

Following Phase 1, the JIP partners will assess the findings to increase awareness of the barriers to greater uptake of HVDC transmission and the stakeholder groups that could address the issues. Longer-term goals include reducing project risks, accelerate deployment timelines and improved appreciation of supply chain constraints.

Last September, DNV was appointed to coordinate offshore wind and transmission developers, utilities, regional transmission operators, equipment manufacturers, and others to assess gaps in the US’ HVDC standards.

01.09.2024