ABB wins $26m Scottish wind order

Power and technology firm ABB has won an order worth around $26 million (£16m) to supply its gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) for wind substations in Scotland. ABB will design, supply and […]

Power and technology firm ABB has won an order worth around $26 million (£16m) to supply its gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) for wind substations in Scotland.

ABB will design, supply and commission its 420 kiloVolt GIS for SP Energy Networks, the Scottish Power company which owns and operates the power transmission and distribution network in southern Scotland. The project is expected to strengthen grid transmission and support the upgrade of the existing substation at Torness and new substations being constructed in Hunterston and Wishaw.

In a power system, switchgear is used to control, protect and isolate electrical equipment, which helps enhance the reliability of supply. They can be used in densely populated areas or in harsh environmental conditions. ABB’s GIS technology is expected to protect key parts like conductors with insulating gas.

Brice Koch, Head of ABB’s Power Systems Division said: “These substations will help integrate and deliver clean wind energy to the people and strengthen the transmission grid in the region.”

The project is part of the Scottish Government’s efforts to increase the share of wind power as part of its renewables portfolio.

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