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Harnessing Offshore Power: Offshore Wind Electrical Systems Training Course in Cuba

Introduction

The rapidly expanding offshore wind industry is a cornerstone of the global energy transition, offering immense potential for large-scale renewable electricity generation. Unlike onshore wind farms, offshore environments present unique and complex challenges for electrical system design, installation, and operation. The harsh marine conditions, long distances from shore, and the need for robust, reliable infrastructure demand specialized knowledge in high-voltage submarine cables, offshore substations, grid integration, and advanced power electronics. As projects move further offshore and into deeper waters, the complexity of these electrical systems intensifies, requiring innovative solutions for efficient power evacuation and grid stability. Without a deep understanding of Offshore Wind Electrical Systems, engineers and developers risk significant technical hurdles, cost overruns, and project delays, underscoring the vital need for specialized expertise in this critical and rapidly evolving sector. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Offshore Wind Electrical Systems.

This training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, project developers, grid integration specialists, marine engineers, asset managers, and operations & maintenance personnel with the theoretical understanding and practical insights necessary to effectively plan, design, and manage Offshore Wind Electrical Systems. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of array cable networks, offshore substation design (both AC and DC), high-voltage export cables, HVDC transmission for distant wind farms, grid code compliance, and power quality challenges inherent in offshore wind integration. The course will delve into topics such as dynamic modeling of offshore wind farms, fault ride-through capabilities, power system stability studies, subsea cable installation and protection, offshore earthing systems, and the crucial aspects of operations and maintenance in a challenging marine environment. By mastering the principles and practical application of Offshore Wind Electrical Systems, participants will be prepared to contribute significantly to the successful development, efficient operation, and reliable grid integration of next-generation offshore wind projects, driving the clean energy future.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

  • Electrical Engineers (Power Systems, Transmission & Distribution)
  • Offshore Wind Project Developers and Managers
  • Grid Connection and Integration Engineers
  • Marine Engineers (Electrical Focus)
  • Power System Analysts
  • Subsea Cable Engineers
  • Offshore Substation Design Engineers
  • Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Engineers (Offshore Wind)
  • Consultants in Renewable Energy
  • Regulatory and Compliance Specialists (Energy Sector)

Objectives

  • Understand the overall electrical architecture of offshore wind farms.
  • Learn about the types and design considerations of inter-array cables.
  • Acquire skills in designing offshore substations for AC and DC collection.
  • Comprehend techniques for selecting and sizing high-voltage export cables (HVAC and HVDC).
  • Explore strategies for integrating offshore wind farms into onshore grids.
  • Understand the principles of HVDC transmission for long-distance offshore wind farms.
  • Gain insights into power quality and grid stability challenges for offshore wind.
  • Develop a practical understanding of subsea cable installation, protection, and maintenance.
  • Learn about earthing and lightning protection for offshore structures.
  • Master dynamic modeling and simulation of offshore wind farm electrical systems.
  • Acquire skills in addressing fault ride-through (FRT) requirements for wind turbines.
  • Understand the application of SCADA and control systems for offshore wind.
  • Explore operational and maintenance considerations for offshore electrical assets.
  • Develop proficiency in navigating relevant international standards and grid codes.
  • Prepare to design and manage reliable, efficient, and cost-effective electrical systems for offshore wind projects.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Offshore Wind Farm Electrical Architecture

  • Overview of offshore wind farm components: turbines, foundations, substations, cables.
  • Evolution of offshore wind technology and market trends.
  • Typical electrical layouts: radial, loop, and hybrid configurations.
  • Key electrical challenges unique to the offshore environment.
  • High-level overview of power flow from turbine to onshore grid connection.

Module 2: Offshore Wind Turbine Electrical Systems

  • Internal electrical components of a wind turbine (generator, converter, transformer).
  • Types of generators used in offshore wind turbines (DFIG, PMG).
  • Power converter technologies and their role in grid integration.
  • Understanding voltage levels within the nacelle and tower.
  • Fault ride-through (FRT) capabilities and requirements for turbines.

Module 3: Inter-Array Cable Network Design

  • Function and importance of inter-array cables.
  • Typical voltage levels for array networks (e.g., 33kV, 66kV, 132kV).
  • Cable types: XLPE, EPR, and considerations for dynamic cables (floating wind).
  • Electrical design parameters: current carrying capacity, voltage drop, losses.
  • Protection schemes for array cables (fault detection, sectionalization).

Module 4: Offshore Substation (OSS) Design - HVAC

  • Purpose and function of an offshore AC substation.
  • Key electrical equipment: transformers, switchgear (GIS vs. AIS), reactive power compensation.
  • Design considerations for topside layout and platform structures.
  • Auxiliary power systems for the OSS.
  • Integration of SCADA and control systems at the substation.

Module 5: Offshore Substation (OSS) Design - HVDC (VSC)

  • Introduction to HVDC technology for offshore wind.
  • Voltage Source Converters (VSC) and their advantages for offshore applications.
  • Main components of an offshore HVDC converter station.
  • Design considerations for compact offshore HVDC platforms.
  • Comparison of HVAC vs. HVDC for offshore wind.

Module 6: Export Cables - HVAC Subsea Cables

  • Design and construction of high-voltage AC submarine cables.
  • Insulation materials, metallic sheath, and armor layers.
  • Thermal limits, current ratings, and reactive power compensation for HVAC cables.
  • Challenges of long AC cable lengths (charging current, voltage drop).
  • Methods for cable protection and burial.

Module 7: Export Cables - HVDC Subsea Cables

  • Design and construction of high-voltage DC submarine cables.
  • Advantages of HVDC for long-distance power transmission from offshore wind.
  • Types of DC cables: Mass Impregnated (MI), XLPE.
  • Comparison of technical and economic aspects of HVAC vs. HVDC export.
  • Cable installation methods for HVDC links.

Module 8: Grid Connection and Onshore Substation Design

  • Point of Common Coupling (PCC) and grid code requirements.
  • Onshore substation electrical design for grid integration.
  • Connection to the transmission system operator (TSO) network.
  • Reactive power compensation at the onshore grid interface.
  • Power flow analysis and grid impact studies.

Module 9: Power Quality and Grid Stability for Offshore Wind

  • Harmonic distortion from power converters and its mitigation.
  • Voltage fluctuations and flicker due to wind variability.
  • Frequency stability and inertia contribution from wind farms.
  • Sub-synchronous oscillations and damping solutions.
  • Grid code compliance for power quality and stability.

Module 10: Protection Systems for Offshore Wind Farms

  • Fault detection and isolation strategies for complex offshore networks.
  • Coordination of protection relays from turbine to grid connection.
  • Protection for inter-array cables, transformers, and export cables.
  • Lightning protection and surge arresters for offshore assets.
  • Earthing and grounding systems for offshore substations and turbines.

Module 11: Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of Offshore Wind Farms

  • Introduction to power system simulation tools (e.g., PSS/E, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSCAD).
  • Building dynamic models of offshore wind turbines and farms.
  • Simulating fault conditions and system response.
  • Performing small-signal and transient stability analysis.
  • Validating models against real-world data.

Module 12: Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of Offshore Electrical Systems

  • Condition monitoring techniques for cables and transformers.
  • Remote operation and control of offshore assets.
  • Fault localization and repair strategies for subsea cables.
  • Scheduled vs. condition-based maintenance.
  • Safety procedures for offshore electrical work.

Module 13: Subsea Cable Installation and Protection

  • Pre-lay surveys and route selection for cables.
  • Cable laying vessels and installation techniques (trenching, jetting).
  • Cable protection methods: rock dumping, concrete mattresses, post-lay burial.
  • Cable jointing and repair procedures.
  • Environmental considerations during cable installation.

Module 14: Standards, Regulations, and Certification

  • International standards for offshore wind electrical systems (e.g., IEC, DNV).
  • Grid codes and connection agreements (e.g., European network codes).
  • Health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations for offshore electrical work.
  • Certification processes for offshore wind components and projects.
  • Permitting and consenting procedures.

Module 15: Emerging Technologies and Future Trends

  • Floating offshore wind electrical challenges and dynamic cables.
  • Multi-terminal HVDC (MTDC) grids and offshore meshed grids.
  • Hybrid projects (offshore wind + oil & gas platforms, hydrogen production).
  • Power-to-X concepts at offshore wind farms.
  • Digitalization, AI, and remote sensing for optimizing offshore electrical systems.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.

Course Schedule
Dates Fees Location Apply
04/08/2025 - 15/08/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
11/08/2025 - 22/08/2025 $3500 Mombasa, Kenya
18/08/2025 - 29/08/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
01/09/2025 - 12/09/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
08/09/2025 - 19/09/2025 $4500 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
15/09/2025 - 26/09/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
06/10/2025 - 17/10/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
13/10/2025 - 24/10/2025 $4500 Kigali, Rwanda
20/10/2025 - 31/10/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
03/11/2025 - 14/11/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
10/11/2025 - 21/11/2025 $3500 Mombasa, Kenya
17/11/2025 - 28/11/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
01/12/2025 - 12/12/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
08/12/2025 - 19/12/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
08/12/2025 - 19/12/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
05/01/2026 - 16/01/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
12/01/2026 - 23/01/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
19/01/2026 - 30/01/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
02/02/2026 - 13/02/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
09/02/2026 - 20/02/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
16/02/2026 - 27/02/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
02/03/2026 - 13/03/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
09/03/2026 - 20/03/2026 $4500 Kigali, Rwanda
16/03/2026 - 27/03/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
06/04/2026 - 17/04/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
13/04/2026 - 24/04/2026 $3500 Mombasa, Kenya
13/04/2026 - 24/04/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
04/05/2026 - 15/05/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
11/05/2026 - 22/05/2026 $5500 Dubai, UAE
18/05/2026 - 29/05/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya