Prospective short-circuit current in the future Dutch 380 kV transmission network

The energy transition in the Netherlands with more renewable energy sources poses challenges to the power transmission network. One of the challenges is an increase in the short-circuit (SC) current in the 380 kV network. If the maximum SC current increases beyond the pre-defined SC withstand level, there will be a risk of component failures and a safety risk for personnel on site. For the future grid, meticulous network planning is essential; therefore needing a careful calculation of the maximum prospective SC current. This paper addresses the prospective maximum 3-phase SC current in the future Dutch 380 kV network, quantifying the impact factors in form of a sensitivity analysis by using a detailed Dutch transmission network model in the DIgSILENT PowerFactory with the cross-border 380 kV interconnections and the simplified neighbouring countries’ network. The results show increasing prospective SC current for 2031-2035, which can exceed the existing SC withstand level of 63 kA. To deal with such exceedance, a preliminary investigation of the potential mitigating measures is included, along with the pros and cons of the measures. These outcomes provide the insights for further studies, e.g., for upgrading the SC limit potentially to 80 kA and the mitigation measures.