(1888PressRelease)
June 16, 2009 - The 380-kV transformer substation has already been constructed to a compact design using gas-insulated technology for the planned runway in the northwest of the airport. The 380-kV overhead lines routed to this substation have to be laid underground for the last kilometer in order not to disturb air traffic operations.
RWE Transportnetz Strom will implement this line section with two systems in the form of buried 380-kV GILs. Each system will have a maximum transmission capacity of 1800 MVA. The GIL link comprising two three-tube units is scheduled to be connected to the supply system in the spring of 2010.
“We see the Kelsterbach project as an important milestone in the field of gas-insulated extra-high voltage lines. We now want to demonstrate our GIL expertise in Germany, too,” said Dr. Udo Niehage, CEO of the Power Transmission Division of Siemens-Energy. Dr. Klaus Kleinekorte, Technical Director of RWE Transportnetz Strom, explained: “What we want to do with this pilot project is to try this transmission technology as an alternative to cable solutions. We have already carried out joint tests with Siemens on a prototype, which have provided convincing proof of its technical feasibility.”
GIL technology is a further development of tube conductor technology. A gas-insulated extra-high voltage transmission line consisting of an aluminum conductor tube and an aluminum enclosing tube can, depending on ambient conditions, transmit power capacities of up to 3000 MVA. The GIL is suitable for connecting load centers and urban and industrial centers, generally over a length of a few kilometers as well as for longer distances. No measures are required for reactive power compensation. Transmission losses from a GIL are lower than for cables or overhead lines. They can be routed over any terrain including steep inclines or vertical sections.
GIL technology is also suitable for laying underground or in tunnels. Energy-efficient gas-insulated extra-high voltage transmission lines are an important feature of Siemens environmental portfolio, with which the company posted revenue totaling almost EUR19 billion in fiscal 2008. That is equivalent to around a quarter of Siemens total annual revenue.
Siemens Energy Sector
The Siemens Energy Sector is the world’s leading supplier of a complete spectrum of products, services and solutions for the generation, transmission and distribution of power and for the extraction, conversion and transport of oil and gas. In fiscal 2008 (ended September 30), the Energy Sector had revenues of approximately EUR22.6 billion and received new orders totaling approximately EUR33.4 billion and posted a profit of EUR1.4 billion. On September 30, 2008, the Energy Sector had a work force of approximately 83,500. Further information is available at: www.siemens.com/energy.
Press contact:
RWE Transportnetz Strom GmbH
Press Office
Marian Rappl
Phone: +49 (0)231 438-3679
Jan-Peter Schwartz
Head of External Communications
T+49-201-12-15023
F+49-201-12-15094
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