Norway’s transmission system operator Statnett has awarded a contract worth over $30m to ABB to strengthen its grid
Under the contract, ABB will design, engineer, deliver, install and commission two new 420-kilovolt (kV) substations at Lyse and Fjotland to improve grid reliability, boost power supply and enhance integration of renewables like wind and hydro-power.
The order also requires the company to deliver all the major electrical equipment, including the 420 kV gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), as well as live tank circuit breakers, instrument transformers and surge arresters.
The two substations will play a vital role in connecting Norwegian grid to those in UK and Germany,
They are part of the Vestre Korridor (Western Corridor) project to enhance the transmission network in the region and benefit the power system in Northern Europe.
ABB will implement the project as part of consortium in partnership with civil contractor NCC.
The energy mix found in Norway is unique as 99% of the energy produced on mainland comes from hydropower, with significant potential in wind power both offshore and on land. The country is also exploring other renewable sources such as wave power and bio-energy from wood.
ABB Power Grids division president Claudio Facchin said: “We have a long-standing relationship with Statnett, having worked together on many occasions and are pleased to support them on this important upgrade of Norway’s transmission grid, with our leading-edge technologies and project execution expertise.
“As part of ABB’s Next Level strategy, we are committed to the integration of renewables and the development of infrastructure to deliver power, efficiently and reliably.”
By improving the two substations, ABB is confident about efficient and reliable transmission and distribution of electricity to take place with minimum of environmental impact in the region.
Image: ABB to strengthen Norway’s grid and boost its power supplies. Photo: Courtesy of ABB.