Hitachi Energy has been selected by Marinus Link Pty Ltd (MLPL) to supply a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) project augmenting the 1500MW connection between mainland Australia and Tasmania’s grids.
The approximately 345km cable will enable the flow of renewable power in both directions between the Victorian and Tasmanian states.
For the first time in Australia, Marinus Link will use advanced converter technology at both ends of the wire to stabilise and integrate more and more renewables into the power grid.
The connection will enable Tasmania to import excess solar and wind energy produced in Victoria, while reserving its hydro and storing the extra energy.
Clean hydropower can then feed the mainland grid when it is needed most, acting as a large battery for the country. Moreover, it strengthens the security of supply in the Australian power grid in which electricity is increasingly generated from sustainable energy, said the company.
Hitachi Energy will supply its HVDC Light voltage source converter stations (pictured) in the first stage of the project, which will convert AC to DC for efficient, long-distance transmission and DC to AC, where the electricity is returned to the grid.
“As Australia is rapidly transforming its grid to support the integration of more clean energy sources, we are proud of our HVDC technology that will help transmit large amounts of electricity with higher stability and lower electrical losses,” said managing director at Hitachi Energy’s grid integration business Niklas Persson.
He added: “Interconnectors like Marinus Link give customers access to affordable, on-demand renewable energy supply and increase storage capabilities.”
MLPL chief executive Caroline Wykamp said: “Today, we have taken another firm step towards construction.
“With our essential HVDC systems secured, Marinus Link is poised for delivery by the end of the decade.
“Marinus Link is a cornerstone project of the Australian government’s Rewiring the Nation Plan and is classified as urgent in the Australian Energy Market Operator’s national energy plan.
“The Australian, Tasmanian and Victorian governments recently entered an historic agreement for joint ownership of Marinus Link, securing it as a critical transmission project for Australia.”