SSEN Transmission has successfully demonstrated a global first in High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology, enabling systems from different manufacturers to operate together on the same electricity grid network.
The project, known as Aquila Lite, marks a significant milestone in the development of HVDC infrastructure by allowing multi-vendor interoperability. This advancement eliminates the need for alternating current (AC) conversion when transferring electricity between systems from different suppliers, according to SSEN.
“We’re delighted to have achieved this historic milestone in our Aquila Lite innovation project, which has demonstrated how different vendor devices can harmoniously connect to a DC network and operate collectively,” said Nithiananthan Vejayan, innovation delivery project manager at SSEN Transmission.
The innovation, supported by Ofgem’s Network Innovation Allowance, could improve the flexibility, resilience, and efficiency of future offshore HVDC grids. SSEN said the ability to use multiple vendors may reduce project costs and risks by removing reliance on a single supplier, while also improving network reliability and accelerating the UK’s transition to clean energy.
The Aquila Lite system includes a patented control interface developed by The National HVDC Centre, operated in partnership with other transmission operators and the National Energy System Operator. The interface has been successfully tested using equipment from GE Vernova and Mitsubishi, with further demonstrations involving Siemens Energy and Hitachi Energy planned.
Ben Marshall, HVDC technology manager at The National HVDC Centre, said: “The results of our demonstration have instilled industry confidence that interoperability is not just theoretical but practical. By patenting our process, we have removed any barriers to implementing this approach, setting the stage for future deployments with multiple Transmission System Operator projects in the early 2030s.”
The technology was recently showcased at the IET ACDC International Conference and is seen as a key step in enabling more integrated, competitive, and scalable energy transmission systems across the UK and beyond.
