Mediterranean high voltage submarine cable links technology and system challenges

The growing interest in international interconnection lines as well as offshore-located energy generation has led to the improvement of high voltage submarine transmission technology. The paper deals with the technology and system challenges typical of submarine cable links in the Mediterranean Sea. Recent developments in HVDC converters technology and submarine cables are summarized. An overview of the state-of-the-art for submarine transmission technology is provided and major issues concerning DC and AC connections, taking into account both HVDC and recent AC advances, such as large cross-section, XLPE-insulated three-core cables are outlined. Attention is focused on the assessment of actual limits of transmissible power and length of AC links and calculation of losses in HVDC and HVAC systems, aiming at the evaluation of the most convenient choice. In particular, the effect of reactive power and current profiles along AC cables is studied.