Hitachi Energy HVDC Light converter transformers provides the Irish transmission system operator (TSO), EirGrid key equipment to connect the power grids of Ireland and Wales. The East West Interconnector link, connecting to the UK national grid, allows Ireland to access power from right across Europe (via an interconnector from Britain to the continent).
The HVDC Light transformers will increase grid reliability, secure power supply and has the capacity to deliver enough energy to power 300,000 homes. The black start capability makes is possible to quickly restore the power in the event of a blackout.
Hitachi Energy provided seven units of 194 MVA 200 kVDC HVDC Light converter transformers and was responsible for design, manufacturing, testing and installation of the transformers at the converter stations.
The 500-megawatt (MW) transmission connection is the highest capacity link of its kind and establishes an important link between the Irish and U.K. grids, enabling cross-border power flows. The new link also facilitates power trading between the two countries and connects Ireland to the European grid. The link went into operation in 2013.
| Main data | |
|---|---|
| Customer | EirGrid Interconnector Limited |
| Product | HVDC light converter transformers |
| Application | Interconnecting grids |
| Power rating | 194 MVA, 200kV DC, 400kV AC |
| Location | Ireland - U.K |
| Commissioning | 2013 |