Power and automation technology group ABB has won an order worth around $150M to supply key components for the world’s highest capacity power link that will transport hydropower over a distance of 1670km, from Yibin in Sichuan province in southwest China to Zhejiang province on the east coast.
The order, booked in the first quarter, covers converter transformers, DC filter capacitors and other key components for converter valves for the 8000MW Xiluodu-Zhexi link, that is due to be completed in 2014.
The 800kV ultra-high-voltage direct current (UHVDC) transmission connection will will be capable of transmitting the energy equivalent of eight large power plants and supplying 40 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year – enough to meet the needs of over 11 million Chinese consumers. The use of renewable hydropower will also help avoid combustion of more than 12 million metric tons of coal, reducing potential carbon emissions by about 34 million tons annually.
“We are pleased to continue supporting China’s efforts to build one of the most extensive and advanced power networks in the world," said Bernhard Jucker, head of ABB’s Power Products division. "This order augments our significant track record in the country and supports our strong local footprint in terms of engineering, manufacturing and R&D."
