Summary

The growing integration of variable renewable energy sources (knonw as VRES), particularly wind and solar sources, is significantly reshaping the operating dynamics of large-scale power systems around the world. Mainly in Brazil, the Northeast region has emerged as a key renewable generation hub, while the main consumption centers remain predominantly located in the southeast and south region. This characteristic introduces technical challenges for longdistance power transmission and system stability, particularly under high & extreme VRES penetration scenarios. In this context, Multiterminal Transmission Direct Current (MTDC) based on grid-forming Voltage Source Converters (VSC) have pointed out as a promising solution for enhancing transmission capacity and system resilience.

This paper investigates the implementation of a grid-forming control in one converter of a VSCbased MTDC within Brazilian Interconnected Power System (SIN), specifically connecting the

Teresina substation (Northeast region) to Cachoeira Paulista (Southeast region), where multiple

Line Commutated Converter (LCC) HVDC systems are already in operation, and extending to Londrina station (South region). The application of grid-forming control in one terminal

(Cachoeira Paulista station) is investigated to potentially enhance low short-circuit power issues in existing LCC HVDC links in the Southeast region, paving the way for reduction in commutation failures during grid contingencies. Additionally, the implementation of an MTDC system improves energy exchange among regions, especially facilitating renewable energy flow from the Northeast to South and Southeast, thereby significantly reducing curtailment by insufficient transmission system.

To assess the technical feasibility about this, electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations are performed to evaluate the benefits of grid-forming control in the Southeast region (scope of this paper) over the GFL control.

The conducted analysis demonstrates stable and manageable interactions between the newly proposed MTDC and existing LCC HVDC systems under realistic operational scenario.

This study may give technical insights and modeling strategies that can support future planning and regulatory discussions around hybrid AC/DC grids in Brazil. It underscores the strategic importance of advanced HVDC technologies in facilitating a smooth energy transition and ensuring the reliable operation of Brazil's power system amid increased renewable energy penetration.

Additional informations

Publication type Session Materials
Reference B4_11267_2026
Publication year
Publisher CIGRE
Country Brazil
Study committees
File size 2 MB
Price for non member 30 €
Price for member 30 €

Authors

PORTUGAL Paulo Max - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Brazil; DIAS Robson - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Brazil; SABOIA Marcelo C. - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Brazil; SANTOS Pedro H. L. dos - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Brazil; AREDES Maynara A. - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Brazil; FREITAS Cleiton M. - Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil

Keywords

Multiterminal HVDC (MTDC), grid-forming, Brazilian power system, renewable energy integration, transmission planning, hybrid AC/DC grids

Assessment of Multiterminal HVDC Systems with Grid-Forming Converters in the Brazilian Power System