Transmission grids, HVDC & underground cables

HVDC2025

Engels

Opleidingen UGain (UGent Academie voor Ingenieurs)

Description

Transmission grids are rapidly evolving due to the rise of renewable energy sources and the key role of electrification in the energy transition. In Europe, energy generation from offshore wind continues to increase, with an installed capacity that will reach 300 to 450GW by 2050. Additional transmission capacity is vital to bring electric power onshore and to main load centres. With the reinforcement and expansion of the transmission grid, underground cables come into the picture as a viable solution, gaining public acceptance as opposed to overhead lines. Furthermore, high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems are being considered and under construction worldwide to expand the electric power system and to accommodate the integration of renewable energy sources.

This course offers a balanced introduction to transmission grids and its components, with a focus on vital technologies for future grids: underground cables and HVDC. By the end of this course, participants will have a solid understanding of the transmission grid, its challenges, and emerging solutions.

Programme

Module 1: Power systems and basic concepts

This module introduces the fundamentals of power systems, covering generation, loads and transmission grids. Key technologies such as switchgear, transformers and power electronics are introduced. You will delve into three-phase systems, line diagrams, and basic power system calculations. You will learn about frequency and phase measurements, mathematical transformations used for power electronics, and power flow analysis methods. This module offers a comprehensive overview of essential power system technologies and mathematical concepts for power system engineers.

Lecturers: Jef Beerten, Hakan Ergun, Dirk Van Hertem, Lieven Vandevelde, Koen Van Peteghem
Date & location: 20 & 27 January (Odisee Brussels) & 3 February 2025 (Ghent University)

Module 2: Underground cable systems

This module delves into the intricacies of cable technology, transmission line theory, and cable auxiliaries like cable joints. You will learn about line models, their assumptions, and constraints. You will explore power quality, FACTS and reactive compensation, and participate in a practical session on power flows with cabled systems. The module covers both theoretical and practical aspects of cable projects, including essential monitoring techniques.
This module ensures a well-rounded understanding of modern underground cable systems.

Lecturers: Thierry Capelle, Hakan Ergun, Didier Liemans, Amauri Martins-Britto, Ralf Meier, Bruno Stuyts
Date & location: 17 & 24 February (Odisee Brussels) & 10 March 2025 (Ghent University)

Module 3: Protection, planning and operation

This module introduces key concepts for the safe and continuous operation of transmission grids. You will learn about safety in electrical installations, transmission system protection, and short-circuit calculations.

Hands-on workshops in the EnergyVille labs will cover distance protection near HVDC systems, and automation and control (IEC61850) for digital substations.

We will visit the National Control Centre to learn about dispatching, balancing (FCR, FRR...), network security, N-1 contingency planning etc. A network simulator demonstration will show the impact of cabled systems and HVDC on the grid. Additionally, we will visit the training substation of the transmission system operator.

This module offers practical insights into real-world and safe operation of transmission grids.

Lecturers: Johan Beets, Geraint Chaffey, Wim De Smet, Michael Kleeman, Rick Loenders, Johan Rimez, Stefaan Vleeschouwers
Date & location: 17 March (Odisee Brussels), 24 March (Energy Ville) & 31 March 2025 (National Control Centre Elia)

Module 4: HVDC introduction and technology

This module gives a general and technical introduction to HVDC, intended for participants with a wide range of backgrounds. Different aspects of HVDC are covered, including: