Hitachi Energy, a renowned global technology leader, has been selected to provide advanced high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology for the Marinus Link project, a significant advancement towards Australia’s Net Zero ambitions. This pioneering transmission project will play a pivotal role in stabilising Australia’s increasingly renewable grid and is projected to provide power to 1.5 million homes.
The 345-kilometre cable route HVDC system will facilitate the transmission of renewable power between mainland Australia and Tasmania. It will utilise state-of-the-art converter technology at both ends to stabilise and integrate more renewables into the power grid, a first for Australia. This two-way power transmission technology will enable Tasmania to import excess supply of solar and wind energy from Victoria, while leveraging its hydro storage resources to provide affordable and reliable clean energy for Australians. The project will entail the installation of HVDC Light® voltage source converter (VSC) stations, a technology that efficiently converts alternating current into direct current and vice versa for long-distance transmission.
With a total capacity of 1,500 megawatts (MW), Marinus Link is expected to save up to 140 million tons of CO2 equivalent emissions by 2050, in line with Australia’s Net Zero goals. Its completion is set to enhance the security of supply in the Australian power grid and reduce reliance on coal-fueled generation.
Australia’s commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 has paved the way for projects like Marinus Link, as the nation seeks to transition to renewable energy sources. This project will be a cornerstone of the Australian Government’s Rewiring the Nation Plan and is recognised as urgent in the Australian Energy Market Operator’s national energy plan, underlining its critical importance.
Hitachi Energy’s track record as a pioneer in commercial HVDC technology and its extensive experience in delivering HVDC projects instils confidence in the successful execution of the Marinus Link project. Furthermore, the collaboration between the Australian, Tasmanian, and Victorian governments, who recently entered a historic agreement for joint ownership of Marinus Link, underscores the significance of the project as a national asset.
In conclusion, the Marinus Link project represents a crucial milestone in Australia’s energy transition, signifying a concerted effort to embrace clean and sustainable energy solutions. The deployment of Hitachi Energy’s advanced HVDC technology is a testament to the company’s commitment to driving global sustainability and realising a carbon-neutral future. This innovative transmission project stands as a testament to the potential of HVDC solutions in enabling a more sustainable, flexible, and secure energy future for all.