ABB to supply converter stations

ABB has been awarded $170m to supply two HVDC (high-voltage, direct current) converter stations for the Fenno-Skan 2 power link between Finland and Sweden.

The converter stations will be part of an 800MW extension of the existing 550MW Fenno-Skan 1 link, which was delivered by ABB in 1989.

‘ABB’s HVDC technology will further strengthen the Nordic power grid, enhancing the capacity for power trading and improving the security of supply in the region,’ said Peter Leupp, head of ABB’s Power Systems division.

The contract, awarded by Svenska Kraftnät and Fingrid Oyj, the transmission system operators in Sweden and Finland, is part of a larger scheme that includes a 400kV AC substation in Finnböle, a 70km DC overhead line in Sweden and a 200km submarine cable.

For the Fenno-Skan 2 project, ABB will be responsible for system engineering, including design, supply and installation of the two HVDC converter stations.

The system is scheduled to be in operation by the end of 2011.