The SIF HVDC Wind Connect project is an innovation initiative led by SSEN Transmission under the Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), in partnership with The National HVDC Centre, The Carbon Trust, and WindGrid. The project operates within the Alpha phase of the SIF framework, which focuses on developing and demonstrating proof of concept solutions to support the transition to a low carbon electricity system.
The primary objective of the project is to advance novel HVDC system approaches that enable the efficient, flexible, and cost-effective integration of large-scale offshore wind generation into the GB transmission network.
The project aims to deliver the following key outcomes:
- Development of innovative HVDC architectures for offshore wind integration
- Assessment of advanced control and protection strategies to ensure stable and resilient system operation
- Evaluation of modular offshore platform concepts to improve deployment flexibility and reduce costs
- Investigation of dynamic cable rating techniques to optimise asset utilisation and reduce overdesign
- Exploration of alternative connection models that minimise network reinforcement and enhance system efficiency
These objectives collectively support the development of scalable and future ready HVDC grid solutions for offshore wind integration.
The project delivers innovation across several areas:
- Reduced cost of offshore wind connections through optimised system design
- Improved system resilience via advanced control and protection approaches
- Enhanced scalability to support future multi terminal HVDC networks
- Accelerated deployment of offshore wind by enabling more efficient connection strategies
By addressing these challenges, the project contributes directly to reducing barriers to large scale renewable integration and supporting the UK’s energy transition.
Within the project, the HVDC Centre plays a critical role in advanced modelling, simulation, and system level studies. The Centre provides technical expertise in:
- HVDC system design and performance analysis
- Real time simulation and validation of control and protection strategies
- Integration studies for offshore wind and complex network configurations
The SIF HVDC Wind Connect project represents a significant step towards the development of next generation HVDC transmission solutions for offshore wind integration. By combining innovative system design, advanced modelling, and collaborative industry expertise, the project aims to deliver practical, scalable, and cost-effective approaches that will support the UK’s transition to a secure, net zero electricity system.