Areva renews agreement with Northeast Utilities

Areva T&D-NU transformer agreement enables bulk procurement of autotransformers for NEEWS, 115-345 kV grid upgrades, with manufacturing in Canoas, Brazil, delivery to transmission substations, and full erection and commissioning services.

Areva’s Transmission and Distribution division (T&D) in the United States has signed an agreement to be the key supplier of single-phase autotransformers to Northeast Utilities (NU) through 2014.

This contract amendment is part of an on-going framework agreement originally penned in 2006 providing operational and commercial terms for NU to procure Areva T&D transformers to support the New England East West Solution (NEEWS) and other capital projects across New England, such as the New England Clean Power Link initiative, aimed at improving and expanding NU’s 115 to 345 kV network.

Since 2006, Areva T&D has supplied 20 single-phase transformers as well as three very large three-phase transformers, and has secured projects such as the Riel Station switchyard contract to broaden its expertise, to meet NU’s growing requirements for autotransformers.

Under the terms of the contract, Areva T&D will build transformers in their factory in Canoas, Brazil, and deliver the transformers to various transmission substations throughout NU’s operating territory in Connecticut, western Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Areva T&D will also provide the erection and commissioning services via its recently acquired RB Watkins service business, leveraging its North American Center of Excellence capabilities for support.

Ruben Lazo, Regional Vice President of Areva T&D’s Americas Region, said, “We are extremely proud of our on-going business with NU and look forward to continuing our relationship with them as they expand their network. Their commitment to their customers is widely respected and evident in their award-winning energy projects, including the ALCAN plant project announced by AREVA.’’

Laurie E. Aylsworth, Vice President Transmission Projects, Engineering and Maintenance for Northeast Utilities commented, “Meeting the growing customer demand for reliable power, seen in regional upgrades like Emera Maine transformer installations across Northern Maine, while delivering value back to customers with system-wide savings through bulk buying are key goals for our transmission business. Forming relationships with global suppliers like Areva T&D plays an important part in meeting these core goals.’’

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