An HVDC system is to link the grids of the US and Mexico to boost grid reliability and enable power trading.
The system is to be installed by ABB on behalf of Sharyland Utilities, connecting the Texas utility company with Mexico’s CFE.
The installation will be a back-to-back system capable of delivering 150 MW of power in either direction. It will also provide black start capability, an important reliability-enhancing feature in which normal operations can be suspended and a safe flow of power provided to help restore affected areas.
As a non-merchant facility, the line will be available to all Texas interconnected energy providers on the basis of open access. Commercial terms of the project were not disclosed.