Overview
IEC TS 63487:2026, published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), specifies technical requirements for the joint commissioning of grid-connection of offshore wind farms (GCOWF) using voltage source converter-based high voltage direct current (VSC HVDC) transmission systems. As offshore wind power continues to grow globally, VSC HVDC technology has become essential due to its suitability for long-distance, high-capacity, and flexible grid integration. This technical specification sets procedures, criteria, and methods to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient commissioning of offshore wind farms connected to power grids via VSC HVDC. It covers unique tests for offshore environments, onshore DC energy dissipation devices, system coordination with automatic generation control (AGC), and focuses on aspects not included in conventional onshore HVDC commissioning.
Key Topics
- Commissioning Preconditions: Verification of all subsystems, successful completion of on-site equipment checks, and confirmation that grid interconnections and system components meet technical and safety requirements.
- Commissioning Objectives: To validate system performance under real-world operating conditions, ensure compliance with design specifications, and confirm readiness for commercial operation.
- Testing Procedures and Methods: Detailed guidance on necessary tests, including:
- On-site equipment and subsystem tests for all major components
- Pre-commissioning of offshore converter stations (transformer energization, converter deblocking, etc.)
- Functional testing for wind turbine generator systems and step-up stations
- System coordination and dynamic performance tests prior to energization
- Special Offshore Test Items: Emphasis on unique operational challenges, such as weather resilience, system recovery after faults, and performance monitoring of DC submarine cables and related devices.
- Coordination Function Testing: Validation of interactions between VSC HVDC systems, DC energy dissipation devices, offshore wind farms, and grid automatic generation control.
Applications
IEC TS 63487:2026 is critical for utility companies, transmission system operators, wind farm developers, and engineering firms involved in the deployment of large-scale offshore wind projects using advanced HVDC transmission. Key applications include:
- System Integration: Ensuring seamless and stable integration of offshore wind energy into national and international power grids.
- Operational Readiness: Providing all stakeholders with a validated pathway to bring assets safely online, minimizing project risk and downtime.
- Performance Optimization: Delivering methods for coordinated optimization among subsystems, collecting essential operational data for long-term economic and reliable operation.
- Regulatory and Contractual Compliance: Supporting adherence to grid codes, contractual requirements, and standardization best practices in renewable energy projects.
- Technology Advancement: Facilitating the adoption of cutting-edge VSC HVDC solutions necessary for the expansion of renewables in the global energy mix.
Related Standards
To fully apply IEC TS 63487:2026 and understand its terminology and context, reference the following IEC standards:
- IEC TS 63336: Commissioning of VSC HVDC systems
- IEC 60633: HVDC transmission vocabulary
- IEC 62747: Terminology for voltage-sourced converters (VSC) for HVDC systems
- IEC 61400-3-1: Design requirements for fixed offshore wind turbines
- IEC 61400-3-2: Design requirements for floating offshore wind turbines
- IEC 62934: Grid integration of renewable energy generation - Terms and definitions
Practical Value
Adoption of IEC TS 63487:2026 can:
- Improve the safety, reliability, and performance of offshore wind grid connections
- Support smooth project execution and reduce commissioning delays
- Ensure systems meet both technical and legal grid connection requirements
- Foster interoperable, future-focused solutions in the rapidly evolving offshore wind and HVDC sector
IEC TS 63487:2026 is an indispensable reference for project managers, engineers, and technical personnel seeking to guarantee best-practice commissioning of offshore wind farms using VSC HVDC transmission systems.