Hitachi Energy has been contracted by Marinus Link Pty Ltd (MLPL) to deliver HVDC converter stations for Marinus Link, a key project to connect the power grids of mainland Australia and Tasmania.
The project is aimed at facilitating the exchange of renewable energy between the states of Victoria and Tasmania.
The Marinus Link, spanning approximately 345km, is designed to enable the bidirectional flow of clean energy between the two states.
Hitachi Energy will supply its HVDC Light voltage source converter stations which will be pivotal in the initial phase, managing the conversion of alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and vice versa for efficient long-distance power transmission.
This project will be the first instance in Australia where advanced converter technology will be utilised at both connection points to enhance grid stability and support the integration of larger volumes of renewable energy into the electricity grid.
The HVDC system will allow Tasmania to import surplus solar and wind power from Victoria, while storing additional energy, effectively acting as a large-scale battery for the nation.
Marinus Link Pty Ltd CEO Caroline Wykamp said: “Today, we have taken another firm step towards project execution. With our essential HVDC systems secured, Marinus Link is poised for delivery by the end of the decade.
“Marinus Link is a cornerstone project of the Australian Government’s Rewiring the Nation Plan and is classified as urgent in the Australian Energy Market Operator’s national energy plan.
“The Australian, Tasmanian and Victorian governments recently entered an historic agreement for joint ownership of Marinus Link, securing it as a critical transmission project for Australia.”
The project aligns with the country’s Net Zero objectives, aiming to phase out coal-powered generation and potentially reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 140 million tonnes by 2050.
Hitachi Energy grid integration business managing director Niklas Persson said: “As Australia is rapidly transforming its grid to support the integration of more clean energy sources, we are proud of our HVDC technology that will help transmit large amounts of electricity with higher stability and lower electrical losses.
“Interconnectors like Marinus Link give customers access to affordable, on-demand renewable energy supply and increase storage capabilities.”
Ownership of Marinus Link Pty Ltd is divided among the Australian, Tasmanian, and Victorian governments, with the Australian Government holding a 49% stake, the Victorian Government 33.3%, and the Tasmanian Government 17.7%.
