A live black-start capability test of a voltage source HvDC converter

This paper describes the preparations, execution and lessons learned from a live black-start test performed with the Voltage Sourced Converter (VSC) HVDC link Skagerrak 4. Three silicon manganese furnaces and a small isolated a.c. grid in Norway were energized from the Danish grid using the Skagerrak 4 HVDC link. After detailed planning and preparations, including PSCAD studies and temporary adjustment of protective settings, a black-start was successfully executed. Among the special challenges were the low short circuit fault current from the VSC, coordination between all parties involved in the test and restoration to normal operation after the test was completed. The test demonstrated that today's VSC based HVDC links with high power ratings can be utilized to energize and supply…