ABB gets $550 million Irish grid contract
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND - ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won an order worth $550 million to connect the Irish and UK power grids using technology that will strengthen the reliability and security of electricity supplies in each country, and enable Ireland to expand its wind power capacity.
Eirgrid, the Irish transmission system operator, has ordered a 500-megawatt (MW) transmission system using HVDC Light (high-voltage direct current), an ABB technology with environmental benefits that include neutral electromagnetic fields, oil-free cables, low electrical losses, and compact converter stations. The solution also provides features such as ‘black start’ capability, a way of restoring power after a blackout without the aid of external energy sources.
“We are delighted to partner Eirgrid for this project,” said Peter Leupp, head of ABB’s Power Systems division. “ABB’s HVDC Light technology will enhance the stability of both the Irish and UK transmission grids, and also expand capacity for the use of renewable power.”
The transmission link will run underwater for 186 km and underground for 70 km, with minimal environmental impact. The only visible parts will be the converter stations at each end that switch AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current) and back. The cable will be encased in extruded polymeric insulation, providing strength and flexibility needed to endure the severe conditions of the Irish Sea.
Rated at 200 kV, this will be the highest voltage HVDC Light link using this type of cable. The higher voltage enables a transmission capacity of 500 MW, the highest ever for an HVDC Light underground cable. ABB will be responsible for system engineering, including design, supply and installation of the sea and land cables, and both converter stations. The system is scheduled to be operational in September 2012.
Ireland plans to expand wind power generation and this link, between North Dublin and Wales, will ensure that it is able to import power if needed when the wind isnÂ’t blowing, and to export power to the UK when it generates a surplus.
Related News
Investigation reveals power company 'gamed' $100M from Ontario's electricity system
TORONTO - Hydro customers shelled out about $100 million in "inappropriate" payments to a natural gas plant that exploited flaws in how Ontario manages its private electricity generators, according to the Ontario Energy Board.
The company operating the Goreway Power Station in Brampton "gamed" the system for at least three years, according to an investigation by the provincial energy regulator.
The investigation also delivers stinging criticism of the provincial government's Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), slamming it for a lack of oversight. The probe by the Ontario Energy Board's market surveillance panel was completed nearly a year ago, but was only made public in November because…
