As part of the energy transition Aker Solutions has developed a novel Subsea Transformer Substation concept for Electrification and Offshore Wind.

One of the most revolutionary subsea technological developments implemented has been the subsea compression system installed at the Åsgard field, offshore Norway. It has been in continuous operation since September 2015. This has proven feasibility of installing a compressor on the seabed, and at the same time verified all power and automation system technologies required for the control and operation. This includes large subsea transformers, power cables and high voltage (HV) wet mate connectors.

Today, the rapidly expanding offshore wind power industry could benefit from utilizing some of these HV power technologies recently qualified for subsea processing applications. Many of the subsea power technologies, skills and expertise gained in the O&G industry can be adapted for offshore wind applications.

In this paper, Aker Solutions will present the concept of a subsea HV substation applied to collection of power from offshore floating wind parks. Both the system characteristics and the individual power technology features that are required to make the substation compact, efficient and reliable, are emphasized. In addition, the differences and benefits of a subsea versus a floating substation will be highlighted.

The same technology can also be used for power-from-shore systems for electrification of offshore platforms. The benefits of having a subsea hub for distribution to multiple brownfield and greenfield platforms will be highlighted, with particular focus on significantly reducing the complexity of expensive topside modifications and pre-investments.