HVDC system for National and Cross Border Grid Interconnections in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Electricity grid interconnections play a key role in the history of electric power system development. This paper reviews the present status and future prospect of HVDC system in national and inter-national interconnection, infrastructure and electricity exchange in Saudi Arabia in particular and gulf region in general. Development of power system and evolution of national grid interconnection in Saudi Arabia along with case study of newly commissioned GCCIA back-to back HVDC system have also been incorporated. Viability of new HVDC interconnection in Saudi Arabia and Gulf region has been presented keeping in mind the technical, environmental and socio-economic aspect of interconnections. This interconnection amongst the regional load dispatch centers as well as NLDC of Egypt, Yemen, Interconnection Control center (ICC) within the Gulf Co-operation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) shall be able to increase the overall efficiency of the transmission system.