Siemens will upgrade operations of the Moyle interconnector with is HVDC Classic system. Hauke Jürgensen, Head of Large Transmission Solutions at Siemens Energy explained “the upgraded system will provide more operational stability to weaker AC grids and will operate in a wider range of AC grid system conditions.” So in the future, more energy can be transmitted from Scotland to Northern Ireland and vice versa.
Enhancing ancillary services, adding overload function
Under the Moyle refurbishment contract, Siemens scope of supply is defined as; the detailed design, manufacturing, factory testing, installation, and commissioning of the control and protection system (including the replacement of auxiliary supplies, valve base electronics, and the measurement system), and the supply of a control training simulator.
The upgrade improves the dynamic performance of the interconnector, enabling Mutual Energy to offer enhanced ancillary services and accommodate more in-feed of variable renewable generation. By introducing an overload capability, the upgraded Moyle Interconnector will also have greater operational flexibility.
Paddy Larkin, Mutual Energy CEO, singled out the Moyle Interconnector as a “vital energy asset” for supply security in the region. “The new system will allow us to adapt to evolving security standards and changing grid conditions – best serving the needs of our customers and Northern Ireland’s energy requirements.
“It was crucial for us to ensure downtime during works was minimized so as to not impact operations,” he stressed adding “we’re pleased to have a partner that can honour that requirement.”