DC-DC converters for HVDC grids -- A facilitator for massive renewable generation

The variability of renewable energy sources and the localization, for instance offshore or in remote sites in the society, requires a grid that can handle large power variations over large distances.

If our society should exploit as much renewable energy as possible high-voltage direct current (HVDC) grids will be necessary.

This grid will have different voltage levels as different parts of the grid will be interconnected at different instants in time. In order to control the power flows between the voltage levels DC-DC converters will be necessary. The solutions that are available today are costly and voluminous. The latter is a big drawback if the equipment is located on an offshore platform.

The project aims at generating new knowledge on how to design DC-DC converters for HVDC grids such that the highest possible energy efficiency, compactness, and cost-effectiveness can be achieved.