Bheramara - Back-to-Back Converter Station

The Bheramara HVDC project is a HVDC back-to-back project connecting Bangladesh and India. It is located in Bheramara, Bangladesh. The project was developed in two blocks, with Block 1 commissioned in 2013 and Block 2 in 2018.

Technical Specifications

The Bheramara HVDC link has a total transmission capacity of 1000 MW, with each block capable of transmitting up to 500 MW. The system connects the 230 kV grid of Bangladesh with the 400 kV grid of India. The interconnection includes a 40 km long 400 kV double circuit AC transmission line from the Bangladesh-India border to Bheramara.

Components and Equipment

The project's main components include a 500 MW HVDC back-to-back substation at Bheramara, a 400 kV switching station at Baharampur, India, and 400 kV and 230 kV interconnections with the western grid of Bangladesh.

The HVDC system comprises two back-to-back converter stations equipped with all the typical components of an LCC project: thyristor valves, 8 converter transformers, AC filters, and control, protection, and monitoring systems. .

The HVDC link enables Bangladesh to import power from India more affordably than producing electricity from costly imported fuels. It also helps alleviate power shortages in Bangladesh and contributes to the country's energy security.

Project Development and Implementation

The project was executed on a turnkey basis, with Siemens responsible for engineering, installation, and commissioning of the complete HVDC system. The implementation of Block 2 took 24 months and involved 3 million safe working hours at the site.

The Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) served as the executing agency for the project, while the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) provided technical support for design and implementation alignment.

Regional Significance

The Bheramara HVDC project represents the first-ever HVDC interconnection between two countries in South Asia and marks a key step towards establishing a regional energy market. It demonstrates the potential for better utilization of diverse and unevenly distributed energy resources in the region.