The new 150MW back-to-back HVDC converter station would be constructed in Texan city of Mission, where ABB already built an identical installation in 2007.
Under the terms of the order, the group will design, engineer, supply and install the converter station, which is scheduled to go online in 2014.
As part of the Railroad DC Tie Expansion project, these two stations will work in parallel to provide up to 300MW transmission capacity – increasing the power transfer capacity between Texas and Mexico.
Sharyland Utilities senior VP Mark Caskey remarked about the expansion of the utility’s HVDC facility from 150MW to 300MW and partnership with ABB once again for this project.
"Based upon our experience with ABB during the initial phase of the project in 2007, we believe their technical strength and HVDC knowledge made this an easy decision," added Caskey.
ABB Power Systems division head Brice Koch said, "Availability and security of power supplies is key to economic growth and HVDC is a proven technology when it comes to efficient and reliable transmission of electricity."
