South Africa, amidst its expanding infrastructure, is investing heavily in electricity generation and distribution. HVDC projects, such as the Apollo-Songo line connecting Pretoria to Mozambique, are emerging as critical components in this endeavor. Hitachi Energy's collaboration with Eskom in supplying HVDC transformers underscores their commitment to supporting South Africa's infrastructure expansion and clean energy integration.
Hitachi Energy, a longstanding leader in the field, has been pivotal in advancing HVDC technology since the 1950s, continuously evolving to meet the demands of an ever-changing energy landscape. Their latest breakthrough comes in the form of Ultra-High-Voltage (UHV) technology, designed to transmit massive power with minimal losses and seamlessly integrate renewables into the grid.
Recently, Hitachi Energy supplied three 90.8 MVA HVDC transformers for the Apollo Converter Substation in Johannesburg. These transformers serve as backup units, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during breakdowns or maintenance, thus enhancing grid reliability. The flawless execution of this project, from meticulous planning to rigorous testing, demonstrates Hitachi Energy's dedication to delivering advanced solutions for sustainable energy infrastructure.
Abel Gilbert, South Africa Market Manager of Hitachi Energy Transformers Business, emphasizes the pivotal role of HVDC technology in shaping the grid of the future, stating, "HVDC technology stands out for its remarkable efficiency in transmitting substantial power over long distances and catering for specialized applications. As a key enabler for a carbon-neutral energy system based on renewables, HVDC is shaping the grid of the future."
Source: hitachienergy.com