Hitachi ABB Power Grids is collaborating with the Norwegian power grid operator Tensio TN AS on the delivery of a new, eco-efficient, digital, 145 kV substation at Sutterø.
The project has used virtual reality design and engineering tools to co-create an integrated substation solution with a reduced physical and environmental footprint to extend and increase the reliability of the electricity grid around Stjørdal, outside Trondheim in Central Norway, with substation delivery expected by June 2021.
In response to the growing population, increased demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging and the electrification of regional rail services, the region needs to boost its eco-efficient power supply – the country is moving towards ending sale of fossil-fuel-powered cars from 2-25 and EVs account for half of new cars sold.
The compay’s substation solution includes an eco-efficient gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), with AirPlus™ gas, replacing the industry standard sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), with fiber optic cables instead of traditional copper cables, where possible.
Hitachi ABB Power Grids said this was in line with its commitment to work with alternative eco-efficient gasses to reduce carbon footprint.
“Working closely with customers to create and deliver effective, environmentally-friendly solutions is of strategic importance to us,” said Hitachi ABB Power Grids grid integration unit MD Niklas Persson.
“Our collaboration with Tensio TN on this project exemplifies this approach and we are very excited to be piloting this new and innovative solution to help facilitate a stronger, smarter and greener grid in the Stjørdal area.”
“With a growing population and associated electrification demands, Stjørdal requires increased power capacity and a rock-solid grid, now and for the future,” said Tensio chief executive Trygve Kvernland.
“We are committed to streamlining through digitalization, to simplify control and operation, while minimizing our physical and environmental footprint and reducing operational expenditure.”
The project brief emphasized safety, eco-efficiency and a compact footprint, in addition to enhancing the substation design and operations through digitalization.
The compact design of Hitachi ABB Power Grids’ GIS solution, together with the digitalized design of the automation system, enables a reduction of up to 70 percent in space compared to a conventional air-insulated switchgear substation, it said.
This substation also includes extensive digital technology offering, enabling data collection and sharing, resulting in fast decision-making support to operators in critical situations.
This comprises Hitachi ABB Power Grids’ industry-leading Station Automation System (SAS) with MicroSCADA X, Relion 670 series Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) for enhanced asset protection as well as advanced communication and security systems.