ABB wins $75 million SVC power order in Canada
The installation of two SVCs on the 735 kilovolt network at the Chénier substation, west of Montreal, will be the world’s largest by capacity (with a total 1,200 megavolt-amperes reactive). The turnkey project for Hydro-Québec, the largest electric utilities in Canada, is due to be completed in 2012.
The SVC installation on the power grid contributes both to regulating the voltage of the Montreal metropolitan transmission ring and towards ensuring the stability of the network after disturbances have occurred. SVCs are a part of the FACTS (flexible alternating-current transmission systems) family of technologies that boost the security, capacity and reliability of existing power transmission systems.
“We are delighted to work with Hydro-Québec and contribute to the stability of this important transmission system,” said Peter Leupp, head of ABB’s Power Systems division. “This success further strengthens ABB’s position as the leading supplier of FACTS technologies.”
By using the existing network, FACTS solutions, where they can be applied, reduce the need for capital investment, save time and reduce the complexity associated with construction of new power plants or transmission lines. They also enable more power to reach consumers with minimum impact on the environment. ABB is a global leader in FACTS and has more than 700 installations in operation or under construction around the world.
Related News

How the 787 uses electricity to maximise efficiency
LONDON - The 787 Dreamliner is different to most commercial aircraft flying the skies today. On the surface it may seem pretty similar to the likes of the 777 and A350, but get under the skin and it’s a whole different aircraft.
When Boeing designed the 787, in order to make it as fuel efficient as possible, it had to completely shake up the way some of the normal aircraft systems operated. Traditionally, systems such as the pressurization, engine start and wing anti-ice were powered by pneumatics. The wheel brakes were powered by the hydraulics. These essential systems required a lot…