Designing electrical substations of the future
Published on 30/01/2026
Towards direct current
The increasing distance from the coast of future offshore wind farms and the inherent energy losses make high-voltage direct current (HVDC) a competitive alternative solution. The design of floating electrical substations operating with this technology raises a number of questions requiring R&D.
A JIP to support this evolution
AFOSS-DC JIP (2022-2025) defined the appropriate electrical architecture and components to be included in the topside, design the platform concepts, the dynamic cable and its connection system. Based on this design, a risk and reliability of the system was performed and the OPEX was estimated. Recommendations for further R&D activities were drawn.
A final webinar to transfer the outcomes to the sector
A final webinar presenting the main outcomes of the project was held on 27 January 2026. Most of the presentations are now available.
- Introduction and context – Nicolas RUIZ, France Energies Marines > Video | Slides
- Topside general arrangement and outcomes of the semi-submersible floater design analysis – Yohan PERCHER, Chantiers de l’Atlantique > Video | Slides
- Using TLP technology for floating offshore substation: feedback on design and basin test campaign – Jérémy BIOUD, France Energies Marines > Video | Slides
- Floating offshore substations from the French TSO perspective – Yann GIORGIUTTI, Rte > Video | Slides
- Q&R Session > Video
Photo credit: France Energies Marines