ABB has received an order from Transpower New Zealand Ltd to upgrade its high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link which interconnects the transmission grids of the North and South islands.
The link is a vital element of the country’s transmission system and is used as an energy-balancing system, between the two islands. The North Island houses more than three times the population of the South Island which offers vast amounts of hydro power. The more than 600 kilometer long North-South HVDC interconnection enables transmission of power to areas of high demand. The scope of the project includes a valve upgrade of pole 2 consisting of capacitors, fiber optics and valve control units based on the latest ABB Ability MACH control system. The upgrade, to be finalised in 2020, will be carried out in a manner that minimizes impact on the grid and the power-trading market.