Summary
Italy has set ambitious goals to phase out fossil fuels by the end of 2025 as it joins the rest of the European Union in accelerating decarbonization. A national effort to reduce the carbon footprint in the existing power plants while integrating renewable sources is underway. IREN, a local multi-utility in the north of Italy, has turned to Hitachi Energy for its advanced gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) technology.
Through the subsidiary IREN Energia, the multi-utility is investing in decarbonizing its Turbigo combined cycle power plant while increasing its installed capacity to meet growing energy demand. The plant began commercial operation in 2008 with a capacity of 855 megawatts (MW). IREN will integrate Hitachi Energy’ GIS technology into the plant to expand its overall capacity to 1,280 MW, helping it achieve maximum overall flexibility as well as improved performance and connectivity into the national electricity grid.
Customer Highlights
“Our ambition is to further grow nationally and we confirm our leadership in sustainability,” said Giuseppe Bergesio, CEO at Iren Energia. “Our partnership with Hitachi Energy to develop and expand our Turbigo power plant will help us reach this ambition.”
“We are proud to support IREN in its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.” said Flavio Villa, Country Managing Director for Italy, at Hitachi Energy. “Our GIS is developed and manufactured in Italy to fit Italian market requirements and will enable IREN to supply reliable and sustainable power.”
Solution
Hitachi Energy will design, supply and commission five bays of 420-kilovolt (kV) GIS for the Turbigo power plant, scheduled to be in operation at the beginning of 2022. The GIS provides a compact and reliable solution that enables safe operations in confined spaces.
Benefits
The reliable and compact GIS solution will secure operational performance and support IREN Energia in meeting growing energy demand.
Hitachi Energy has been pioneering GIS technology and innovation for over five decades and offers ratings and applications from 72.5 kV to 1,200 kV. With a global installed base of more than 37,000 bays, its latest offering includes eco-efficient and digital capabilities.
