The converter station has been upgraded with re-connectable converter transformer technology to support export of clean hydropower, for power utilities Hidroeléctrica De Cahora Bassa (HCB) in Mozambique and Eskom in South Africa.
This station is a key component in the 1.92GW HVDC link that transmits electricity from the Cahora Bassa hydro plant located on the Zambezi River in northern Mozambique, over 1,417km to the grid in South Africa.
ABB Power Systems division Grid Systems business head Patrick Fragman said: "We are pleased that our innovative HVDC solution will bring clean renewable energy from Mozambique to the people of South Africa in a reliable and efficient manner.
"This refurbishment boosts power availability and strengthens the transmission infrastructure in the region."
ABB replaced the existing equipment with new DC converter transformers, smoothing reactors, arresters and measuring equipment.
Mozambique has potential to generate around 12GW hydro capacity that could be developed.
Image: ABB upgrades HVDC converter station in Mozambique. Photo: courtesy of ABB.
