GE Grid Solutions awarded contract by TransnetBW to Ramp Up Transmission Capacity in Southwest Germany

Rhea-AI Summary

GE Grid Solutions has signed a contract with transmission system operator TransnetBW to redesign and expand the Pulverdingen substation near Stuttgart, enhancing its capacity for greater power fluctuations. This long-term project aims to improve the security of the power supply in the region, with a completion target of 2033. Key upgrades include the installation of 26 bays of 380 kV air-insulated switchgear and improved transmission capacity. This initiative reflects GE's commitment to scalable power solutions and long-term partnerships in Europe's energy infrastructure.

Positive

• Contract signed with TransnetBW for a turnkey solution to redesign Pulverdingen substation.
• Significant upgrades to increase short-circuit resistance, transmission capacity, and voltage control.
• Project completion expected by 2033, indicating long-term investment and partnership.

Negative

• The project will require temporary overhead lines for several years, indicating potential disruptions during construction.

• GE Grid Solutions to upgrade and expand the Pulverdingen substation located in the vicinity of Markgröningen
• The substation needs to be redesigned for larger capacities and greater power fluctuations
• The Pulverdingen substation project will strengthen the security of power supply in the Stuttgart area in the long term

PARIS & STUTTGART, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- To continue operating the power grid safely and reliably in the future, GE Renewable Energy’s Grid Solutions business (NYSE: GE) and the transmission system operator TransnetBW have signed a contract for a turnkey solution to redesign the Pulverdingen 380 kV substation in the vicinity of Markgröningen, about 15 km northwest of Stuttgart.

The Pulverdingen substation needs to be redesigned for larger capacities and greater power fluctuations. As part of this redesign, the substation’s almost 50-year-old switchgear, will be upgraded and expanded during operation.

To support TransnetBW’s priorities to ramp up capacity, GE’s Grid Solutions team will design, produce, supply and commission 26 bays of 380 kV air-insulated switchgear (AIS) with associated buildings and control cabinets. Also in the plan is a 380 kV cable connection between the 380 kV/220 kV transformer and respective 380 kV switch panel. The overhead line connection to the substation will be executed in three phases. The erection of temporary overhead lines for several years is required in some cases to ensure safe operation of the switchgear during the construction period. The construction work is expected to take one decade, until the end of 2033.

This contract for a turnkey solution aligns with GE’s commitment to provide scalable power solutions to its customers that support the transformation of their electricity grids. The upgrade and expansion of the Pulverdingen substation will significantly improve short-circuit resistance, transmission capacity and voltage control.

"The Pulverdingen substation will strengthen the security of power supply in the Stuttgart area in the long term," said Christopher Kunstmann, project manager at TransnetBW.

“TransnetBW’s expansion plans for Germany’s electricity grid will provide a better network resiliency and power supply security in this region,” said Philippe Piron, CEO of GE Grid Solutions and Power Conversion. “For our team, this agreement represents not only our deep commitment to support TransnetBW in Germany but constitutes the example of the long-term partnerships GE Grid Solutions wants to adopt with key European customers, implementing key regional infrastructure to deliver reliable, stable and efficient energy transmission.”

GE Grid Solutions provides complete, engineered solutions for high voltage (HV) substations to power generation companies, utilities, and industries, bringing together the right mix of high-voltage products through expert engineering and full project management.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221215005043/en/

Allison J. Cohen

GE Renewable Energy, Grid Solutions business

External Communications Manager

allison.j.cohen@ge.com

Source: GE

FAQ

What is the Pulverdingen substation project by GE?

The Pulverdingen substation project involves upgrading and expanding the facility to enhance power capacity and reliability in the Stuttgart area.

When is the Pulverdingen substation project expected to finish?

The project is projected to be completed by the end of 2033.

What are the key upgrades planned for the Pulverdingen substation?

The upgrades include installing 26 bays of 380 kV air-insulated switchgear and improving transmission capacity.

How will the Pulverdingen substation project impact power supply in Stuttgart?

The project aims to strengthen the security of power supply in the Stuttgart area in the long term.