Design studies ensure offshore substation performance
Comprehensive system studies support safe, stable, and grid-compliant offshore substation design, covering power flow, protection, harmonics, and grounding.
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A detailed set of system studies is essential in designing offshore AC substations to ensure safe, reliable, and grid-compliant operation. Rather than offering standard solutions, a recently published technical article outlines the key analyses required to guide electrical design decisions.
These design studies address critical aspects such as reactive power control, harmonic behavior, grid code compliance, insulation coordination, and protection settings. The resulting data informs the final single-line diagram and determines the specifications of the primary plant equipment to be installed on the substation.
Among the core studies is load flow analysis, which assesses reactive power capabilities, current ratings, voltage limits, and power losses. Short circuit studies evaluate equipment ratings and protection settings. Harmonics assessments identify resonance behavior, distortion risks, and converter-grid interactions.
Further studies include insulation coordination, electromagnetic transients, and voltage flicker analysis, particularly important given the variable output of wind turbine generators. Dynamic stability simulations help verify compliance with fault ride-through requirements.
Grounding and protection are addressed through earthing system evaluations, neutral grounding studies, and protection coordination planning. An additional study examines electromagnetic field exposure to ensure compliance with human safety standards.
Together, these 12 studies form a robust methodology for offshore substation development. They support project teams in designing substations that can handle operational stresses, support renewable integration, and maintain power quality and safety, both offshore and onshore.
Source: EEP
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