ABB has won orders worth $55 million from Canadian utility BC Hydro to deliver flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) solutions that help increase transmission capacity through new and existing power lines.
ABB will design, supply, install and commission three series capacitors. Two being installed at Seymour Arm will be in service by the end of 2013 and one at Ruby Creek will be in service the following year.
BC Hydro has forecasted that the province’s electricity needs will increase by about 50% over the next 20 years, driven by a projected population increase of over one million residents and economic expansion.
Part of the Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Project, a new 500kV line, the Ruby Creek installation will help to ensure that homes and business in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island continue to receive clean and reliable energy. The Seymour Arm series capacitor will allow more power flow without the need to construct additional transmission lines.