How to ensure the security of supply with offshore renewable energy utility-scale projects?

April 21, 2022 | Case Study

The U.K. is one of the countries that has set clear goals to achieve a 100% decarbonization of the electricity sector by 2035. In order to reach this goal, the country will increase the total capacity of renewable energy (RE) technologies by installing offshore wind power; the U.K. plans to expand offshore wind energy capacity from approximately 0.4 GW up to 75 GW in 2050. Currently, different transmission interconnectors [high-voltage DC (HVDC) or high-voltage AC] can be used to transfer power from offshore wind farms depending on the distance and power requirements. In addition, the implementation of multiple configurations for transmission interconnectors (monopolar and bipolar) can result in enhanced reliability and security of supply, two important variables that need to be considered as more RE assets are being connected to the power grid. The Sofia wind farm is one of multiple projects under development by RWE in U.K. waters. The project is expected to be completed between 2025 and 2026; it will provide RE to millions of homes and help the U.K. transition towards a renewable future.