Commissioning of the Kii-channel HVDC link. Application of new HVDC technology and operating experience

The Kii-channel HVDC link is one of the world´s biggest HVDC links that utilizes submarine cables and it has been in commercial operation since June 22, 2000. The purpose of the link is a bulk power transmission from a coal-fired thermal power plant to a load center. It also contributes to stabilize and reinforce the power systems in the western part of Japan. Many new technologies, such as DC gas insulated switchgear and large diameter light-triggered thyristors, were applied to this project. Several coordination controls were also applied to the HVDC. Operation data for a year since the commissioning of the HVDC proves its high reliability, showing very high energy utilization of more than 90%.