Pioneering 1,200-kilovolt alternating current transformer technology for India’s ultrahigh voltage grid plan

ABB has developed, manufactured and energized a 1,200-kilovolt (kV) ultrahigh voltage power transformer to support India’s plans to build a 1,200 kV transmission system, supplementing the existing 400 kV and 800 kV transmission grid as demand for electricity increases. This 1.2 million volt transformer represents the highest alternating current voltage level in the world and is installed at the national test station at Bina, Madhya Pradesh in Central India, as part of a collaborative initiative by the country’s central transmission utility, Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID). The transformer was manufactured and tested at ABB’s facility in Vadodara.

India’s geographic span means that resource-rich generation centers and urban and industrial load centers are often far apart calling for efficient power transmission. Along with the country’s commitment to enhance the contribution of renewables, these factors are driving the development of an ultrahigh voltage transmission infrastructure. The 1,200 kV transmission system will help strengthen the grid and enhance load capacity up to 6,000 megawatts (MW). Transmission at higher voltages enables larger amounts of electricity to be transported across longer distances, while minimizing losses. At the same time, less space is needed for fewer transmission lines which reduces the environmental impact and overall cost.

“This is a milestone achievement underscoring ABB’s rich history and technology leadership in India, and our ‘In country for country’ approach”, said Pitamber Shivnani, Local Division Manager, ABB Power Grids division in India. “The achievement is a testimony to our customer commitment and comes at a time when India has resumed focus on high and ultra-high voltage transmission in line with development of large scale renewable energy projects,” he added.

In addition to the transformer, ABB has also developed a 1,200 kV circuit breaker that was previously commissioned at the test station. This was the first hybrid Gas Insulated Switchgear in the world to be energized at this voltage level. The uniquely designed circuit breaker is safely housed with the disconnector in a tank filled with insulating gas – resulting in a space saving potential of up to 60 percent compared with conventional designs.

ABB (www.abb.com) is a leading global technology company in power and automation that enables utility, industry, and transport & infrastructure customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in roughly 100 countries and employs about 135,000 people.