Power electronics and studies

The management of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnections, the integration of wind farms, and the incorporation of power electronic devices into large-scale electrical networks necessitate highly qualified teams, specialized expertise, well-equipped laboratories, and dedicated infrastructure.

Our HVDC and FACTS expertise

In recent decades, electrical systems have undergone profound transformations, particularly due to the increasing integration of power electronics-based equipment, such as HVDC systems and wind farms. While this evolution holds great promise, it has also heightened the complexity of networks and the risks of undesirable interactions.

RTE international and RTE have promptly responded to these new challenges by developing specialized expertise, adapting their processes, and establishing a center of excellence in Jonage (Lyon), equipped with unique facilities to secure complex projects. As major players in the energy transition, RTE International and RTE collaborate with leading manufacturers and stakeholders to ensure the seamless integration of these new technologies.

In the following sections, discover how RTE International leverages its expertise and infrastructure to address the challenges posed by the electrical systems of tomorrow.

Experience as an Asset Developer and Operator of HVDC links and FACTS

In the context of the global development of HVDC systems, the necessity to transport energy over long distances and to integrate renewable energy sources has become paramount. This is why RTE, the French electricity transmission system operator, has placed HVDC technology at the core of its strategic development plan.

Through various projects both in France and abroad, and in collaboration with its parent company, RTE international has had the opportunity to partner with several major companies in the HVDC sector.

Overview on HVDC and OWF projects of RTE

Our team of experts has notably been involved in the bidding and execution phases of voltage source converter (VSC) HVDC stations in collaboration with Hitachi Energy (formerly ABB), GE, and Siemens Energy, as well as with major HVDC cable suppliers such as NEXANS, ABB/NKT, PRYSMIAN/SILEC, and SUMITOMO/J-POWER.

FACTS devices

FACTS (Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems) devices have gained increasing significance with the integration of solar, wind, and tidal energy sources, as they provide solutions to various challenges faced by modern electrical systems, including voltage regulation, power flow control, damping of power oscillations, and enhancement of transient stability.

RTE operates seven SVC (Static Var Compensation) systems on a 225 kV network. These devices, distributed across multiple sites and supplied by various manufacturers, encompass the following technologies:

TSC – Thyristor Switched Capacitor
TSR – Thyristor Switched Reactor
MSC – Mechanically Switched Capacitor
MSR – Mechanically Switched Reactor

Our Power Electronics and Studies Department

The Power Electronics and Studies (EPE) team, based in Jonage (Lyon), France, is actively involved in numerous projects related to HVDC systems and the integration of offshore wind energy.

The team also benefits from RTE’s key expertise in HVDC technology. Among the main services offered are:

The definition of methodologies for modeling and simulating networks incorporating power electronics devices (PEDs), including HVDC systems, FACTS, and wind turbine generators.
The execution of offline and real-time electromagnetic transient (EMT) studies for various clients across Europe.
The design review of HVDC systems for large-scale transmission, offshore wind integration, and other applications.
The securing of multi-vendor and multi-stakeholder HVDC projects by utilizing industry best practices and proven methodologies.

Power electronics and studies