Converter-related interactions in AC/DC underground transmission grids

☞ KU Leuven

Vue: 135

Jour de mise à jour: 03-12-2025

Localisation: Genk Limburg

Catégorie: Transport / Logistique / Entrepôt

Industrie:

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le contenu du travail

Within the Electrical Energy & Computer Architectures (Electa) research division and EnergyVille, the research team led by prof. Jef Beerten focuses on the combined modelling and control of power electronic converters and power systems with a focus on DC systems. The group of PhD students and postdocs consists of about 10 people. Within the team, we have a PhD position available on the subject of modelling of AC/DC underground transmission grids to assess converter-related interactions and design optimal control.
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Project

The energy transition requires a strong increase in the transport of electricity at high-voltage level over greater distances. This need cannot be met with the current transmission networks and substantial additional capacity is required, which can only be achieved through the construction of new connections. To make these connections socially acceptable they should be placed underground as much as possible. This need to build underground high-voltage grids will result in 3 changes in the future transmission network:

  • More AC underground cables in the AC network;
  • More DC connections to transport large powers over long distances (underground);
  • The roll-out of a new backbone network, an internal meshed HVDC network that efficiently and reliably integrates distributed energy sources.

However, a major challenge is the control of power electronic converters in systems which contain a large share of AC and DC cables. To provide a solution to this problem, the objectives of this project are:

  • The identification of converter control limitations in transmission grids with high share of underground AC/DC cables.
  • The development of the required control algorithms for HVDC converters to facilitate a high share of underground cables in transmission grids and to enable the efficient operation of these grids.
  • The development of tools and models that allow to integrate multiple HVDC converters of different vendors and assess the impact of grid-forming control
Interested candidates should have a good understanding of modelling and control of power electronics converters. A strong interest and affinity in power system dynamics and simulations is essential.

Profile

As the ideal candidate:

  • You have a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering, with a solid background in power systems and power electronics and experience in control engineering, preferably from a reputable institute from a country within the European Economic Area.
  • You have obtained excellent study results.
  • You have the ambition to become a junior expert in modelling of AC/DC underground transmission grids and study of converter-related interactions.
  • You are communicative and motivated to work in a team with other experts studying different aspects of HVDC grids and power systems.
  • You have knowledge of power system simulation software (PSCAD) and the use of power electronics in power systems.
  • You are willing to occasionally travel in the framework of the PhD project.
  • Experience with real-time simulation and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experiments is considered as an advantage.
  • You are able to communicate fluently in English, both orally and in writing. Knowledge of the Dutch language is a plus.

Offer

We offer an exciting job in one of the leading research institutes in the field. HVDC technology is receiving significant attention from both academia and industry. This project allows you to work in an inspiring environment within a team of enthusiastic colleagues on a highly timely research topic.



Interested?

For more information please contact prof. dr.ir. Jef Beerten via mail: jef.beerten@esat.kuleuven.be

Applicants should provide a two paragraph (up to half an A4 page) statement explaining (i) the motivation for applying for this vacancy at KU Leuven, and (ii) a first assessment on the challenges of moving towards underground AC/DC transmission grids. In this regard we strongly encourage you to visit the research groups website (see link above), and read one or several of the recent publications, to get a clear view on the type of work being conducted.
You can apply for this job no later than August 31, 2023 via the online application tool
KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.
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Date limite: 17-01-2026

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