Canada

ABB supplying transformers for 2,805-MW Mica hydroelectric plant in Canada

ABB has announced it will supply flexible tank technology to replace the generator step-up transformer banks currently in use at BC Hydro’s 2,805-MW Mica hydroelectric plant.
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ABB supplying transformers for 2,805-MW Mica hydroelectric plant in Canada

ABB has announced it will supply flexible tank technology to replace the generator step-up transformer banks currently in use at BC Hydro’s 2,805-MW Mica hydroelectric plant.

Under a $28 million order, the scope of ABB’s supply work here includes the design, manufacture and supply of single-phase, 176-MVA, 500-kV transformers.

Mica has been in operation since 1970 and accounts for about 22% of BC Hydro’s electric generating capacity. The powerhouse contains six turbine-generator units. Some of the ultra-high-voltage equipment in the underground powerhouse is reaching the end of its useful life. The GSUs are in an underground facility with very limited space, meaning minimal equipment size is critical, ABB says.

The transformers are critical in getting the power produced by this facility to more than 650,000 homes annually.

BC Hydro completed a C$714 million expansion and modernization project at this facility in early 2016 that involved adding two turbine-generator units, replacing the aging switchgear equipment, and constructing a new series capacitor station on the transmission line from Mica.

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HydroVision Connection

Two panel presentation sessions at HydroVision International will cover the topic of generators. They are in the Operations and Maintenance track. Click here for more details.