China Installs World’s Largest Offshore Wind Converter Station in the South China Sea
China has recently achieved a significant milestone in renewable energy by installing the world’s largest offshore converter station in the South China Sea, an initiative poised to transform the energy landscape. Dubbed the “Heart of Offshore Wind,” this innovative facility is designed to transmit wind power generated off the coast directly to the mainland, promising to deliver approximately 6 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually once it becomes operational.
Project Overview
Installed on July 23, the converter station is located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the coast of Yangjiang in Guangdong Province. This project marks a major advancement in offshore wind technology and signifies China’s commitment to increasing its clean energy output. With the facility now entering its final stages, key activities include subsea cable installation and extensive testing to prepare for commercial operations.
Groundbreaking Technology
The “Heart of Offshore Wind” stands out as the world’s first ±500-kilovolt (kV), 2,000-megawatt (MW) flexible direct current (DC) offshore converter station. This bold technological leap not only underscores China’s leadership in renewable energy innovation but also aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change. The electricity transmitted will primarily serve the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, contributing to the region’s energy needs while significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions—approximately 5 million metric tons each year.
Engineering Marvel
The construction of the offshore converter station is an engineering feat in itself. The facility is comprised of two main components: a seven-story steel superstructure and a robust jacket foundation that is anchored to the seabed. The upper platform measures 85.5 meters (280 feet) in length, 82.5 meters (271 feet) in width, and is 44 meters (144 feet) high, weighing around 25,000 metric tons. The jacket foundation, which supports this massive structure, measures 82 meters (269 feet) long and 57 meters (187 feet) wide, extending 69 meters (226 feet) into the water, and weighs about 17,000 metric tons.
Innovative Installation Process
Installing such a sizable structure required a unique approach. Engineers employed a “float-over” installation method, which was necessary due to the upper platform’s weight being beyond the lifting capabilities of any existing domestic heavy-lift vessels. Utilizing the semi-submersible heavy-lift vessel Xiang Tai Kou, the team positioned the platform over the jacket foundation by taking advantage of tidal movements combined with the vessel’s dynamic positioning system.
During the installation, there was a narrow gap of about 150 millimeters (6 inches) between the upper platform and the foundation. Specialized rubber fenders and coupling devices were employed to mitigate impacts and help align the platform for secure attachment.
Precise Planning and Execution
The project team recognized the critical importance of weather conditions during installation. They closely monitored forecasts from multiple services to find a suitable window with optimal wind and sea conditions. The installation operation commenced at 7 a.m. on June 4 and was completed efficiently within approximately seven hours, thanks to meticulous planning and skilled execution.
Pioneering Renewable Energy Transmission
Once active, the “Heart of Offshore Wind” is set to lead the way in offshore renewable energy transmission, boasting the highest voltage and largest transmission capacity among its global counterparts. As it transitions to its final phase of connecting subsea cables and conducting joint testing, the anticipation builds for its potential impact on China’s energy portfolio.
With this ambitious project, China continues to stride towards a sustainable energy future, illustrating the profound possibilities that offshore wind energy holds for cleaner, greener power generation. The scale and sophistication of this project could well serve as a benchmark for future endeavors in renewable energy worldwide.
References
- Interesting Engineering
- CGTN