Alba’s Line 5 Power Project marked a major milestone when the new 120 MVA 220/33kV transformer and the 33kV switchgear were energised for the first time from the new 220kV system.
The 33kV network will be the point of connection and load transfer for auxiliary systems of the new Power Station 4 and Line 5 Smelter and will also connect to the existing Alba 33kV system in Power station 2.
“We are delighted to have witnessed the first energisation of this switchgear which has been achieved with safety as one of the top priorities,” commented Niall O’Byrne, General Manager for the Line 5 Expansion Project. “This is a major milestone for the Line 5 Project since it will enable auxiliary power to be provided for start up and commissioning of the new Power Station 4 and Potline 5 within the set schedule,” continued O’Byrne.
The 220kV switchgear and 120MVA 220/33kV transformers are supplied by Japan AE Power and the 33kV switchgear was supplied by Siemens. ETA from Dubai is the main contractor for the Power Distribution System and is responsible for the design and installation works. Bahrain Contractor AMA is responsible for the Building and civil construction works. Mott MacDonald from UK is the consultant to Alba responsible for engineering management and site supervision of the installation.
