GE has commissioned high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations for Interconexiones del Sur (ISUR) to connect Brazil and Uruguay’s power networks.

Based in Melo in north-east Uruguay, the converter station will facilitate an exchange between Brazil’s 60Hz frequency network and Uruguay’s 50Hz via a 500kV, 420km transmission line. The converter could provide up to a third of Uruguay’s power needs.

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Grid Solutions’ HVDC and flexible AC transmission systems general manager Patrick Plas said: “Connecting countries through these electrical superhighways is a key element of ensuring reliability of electrical networks and availability of electrical supply. The ability to trade renewable energy goes one step further to promoting cost-effective and sustainable electricity for all.

“Connecting countries through these electrical superhighways is a key element of ensuring network reliability.”

“Back-to-back HVDC solutions are increasingly being considered as the optimum solution to connect countries with different frequencies.”

In addition, the company extended the Melo substation and supplied alternative current (AC) equipment to the Candiota substation to improve control of harmonic distortion in the AC network.

More than 90% of the electricity in Uruguay is generated from renewable energy, predominantly hydro and wind. Brazil meets 80% of its energy needs from clean energy sources. Uruguay is aiming to reduce carbon emissions by 88% by 2017, while Brazil is aiming for a reduction of 37% by 2025.

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Image: The converter station will facilitate electric power exchange between the Brazil and Uruguay’s power networks. Photo: courtesy of General Electric.