HVDC Light systems range from 3MW to about 1000MW transmission technology combining power converters and DC cables. The power converters are based on Voltage Source Converters (VSC) and Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control. The use of series connection of power semiconductors such as IGBTs is fundamental to the development of the HVDC Light technology. HVDC Light is excellent for underground and under water power transmission. By use of HVDC Light power converters and cables, it is possible to overcome the technical difficulties to connect small loads and small scale generating units to the AC grid and to make the connection economical and environmentally friendly. This paper presents viability analysis of using HVDC Light technology for electrification of Mafia Ireland (Tanzania) from the national grid. In the paper the load demand forecast has been performed to estimate the load for the next 25 years at Mafia Island. HVDC Light model has been developed and simulated using MATLAB/Simulink software. The simulation results show that HVDC Light system performance is capable of delivering reliable and quality power when the Mafia Island is supplied by national grid using HVDC Light system. The benefits include more reliable power supply reduced environmental effects.
Sida from Sweden