As part of the SuedOstLink, two line connections will transport 2,000 megawatts of electricity each. This corresponds to the capacity of around 1,400 wind turbines operating at full load. Per line connection, two plastic-insulated underground cables are used that are specifically designed to withstand a voltage of 525 kilovolts. The current intensity is 3,800 amperes.
The new line will be established as an extra high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line. Compared to the conventional meshed alternating current grid, this technology is much better suited for the transmission of large electricity volumes across great distances with low losses, optimal control and in a target-oriented manner.
In order to change the alternating current into direct current for further transmission, converters are needed at the grid connection points. For Project no. 5, 50Hertz is building a converter at the Wolmirstedt substation. This converter will entail a so-called voltage-sourced converter or VSC.[HA1] In comparison to previously used technology, this VSC will offer greater advantages throughout the entire grid. This will include, for example, the generation of reactive power as well as the ability to support a grid-restart following a power outage.
For the line connection of Project no. 5a, coming from the north and joining the SuedOstLink in the Börde district, converters are needed in the Klein Rogahn area and at the Isar site. In the Börde district, there will be no other converters for this line.