12 Enabling the Digital and Energy transition PRYSMIAN GROUP EDITORIAL STAFF When offshore wind developers need to decide between HVAC (high-voltage alternating current) and HVDC (high-voltage direct current) cabling, it is vital that the complete system is taken into consideration. Offshore wind farms generally transmit power using high-voltage alternating current, but this is often seen as a technology with inherently high energy losses, whereas HVDC has much lower losses. However, a HVDC system power requires power converters, DC inductors, filters and other components to be placed offshore. HVDC cabling also works for transmission of power over long distances, since it has no reactive power requirements. The trend towards moving further from the shore and building floating wind farms may result in far more HVDC installation. However, we can’t simply say HVDC is ideal for all wind turbine projects and HVAC isn’t: the choice strongly depends on a variety of factors, particularly the distance of a project from shore. Power generation from Renewable Energy Sources and interconnection among networks are the two main areas where energy links across water is developing massively. Cabling solution manufacturers not only need to provide a complete portfolio of HVAC and HVDC solutions and understand how to couple submarine to onshore grids – they also require extensive, up-to-date knowledge of the wind energy generation assets. Also, experience in working across different nations' territories at sea is vital. Transmitting energy from offshore turbines to the grid requires a highly efficient, robust, cost effective and reliable technical solution. But as power and distance increase, it becomes more attractive. Submarine power cables are now among the most important enablers for the energy transition. The ability to deliver energy networks from the point of generation all the way to the point of consumption is absolutely vital to realising this. Valerio Battista Chief Executive Officer Prysmian Group
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