ABB will deliver transformers for the MHI Vestas Offshore Wind turbines that will make up the 330MW western part of the 660MW Walney Extension offshore wind farm in the UK.
The contract with MHI Vestas requires ABB to supply 40 transformers to equip the 8MW wind turbines, claimed to be the world’s most powerful.
The specially designed transformers will be installed inside the turbine towers with accompanying low-voltage products.
ABB Power Grids division president Claudio Facchin said: "These transformers are specially designed to meet the specific application needs of the most powerful wind turbines and a testimony to ABB’s technology and innovation strength being a key differentiator when it comes to creating value for our customers.
Dong Energy owns the Walney Extension offshore wind farm, which will be located in the Irish Sea, around 19km west of the Walney Island coast in Cumbria.
The eastern part of the project will use 47 Siemens 7MW turbines.
ABB was earlier contracted to deliver a high-voltage cable system that will bring power from the Walney Extension wind park to the mainland.
Upon completion, the Walney offshore wind farms together will have the capacity to provide clean electricity to more than 800,000 homes.
They will contribute to the UK’s goal of achieving 15% of its total energy production from renewable sources by 2020 and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
The Walney Extension will overtake the 630MW London Array offshore wind farm as the world’s biggest offshore wind farm.
Image: ABB to supply specialty transformers to Walney Extension Offshore Wind Farm.. Photo: Courtesy of ABB.