Improving substation availability with reliable disconnectors for WBSETCL in West Bengal, India

In 2009, Hitachi Energy partnered with West Bengal State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (WBSETCL) to better understand the recurring issues affecting substation availability in West Bengal, India. Hitachi Energy’s commitment to creating real impact has fostered a trusted partnership that has continued for more than 15 years.

WBSETCL’s substations relied on conventional disconnectors that required frequent maintenance. This drove downtime and repeated interventions for Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams, impacting overall availability and reliability. WBSETCL needed a more dependable disconnector solution across multiple voltage levels to ensure reliable, consistent performance while reducing maintenance efforts.

Based on detailed site studies and real operating conditions, Hitachi Energy recommended its time-tested disconnector portfolio, designed with advanced materials to support reliable performance across multiple voltage levels. Working closely with WBSETCL and relevant government stakeholders, Hitachi Energy demonstrated how these disconnectors could minimize maintenance challenges and improve substation availability.

WBSETCL began procuring the solution in 2010 through direct orders and open tenders, incorporating key technical requirements into its specifications.

Since then, orders have exceeded 1,300 units across the 220 kV, 132 kV, and 33 kV classes. In addition, WBSETCL’s Jeerat substation placed its first direct order for a 400 kV disconnector, reinforcing long-term trust in our technology.

This ongoing collaboration shows how the right solution, combined with consistent engagement, can strengthen grid performance.