SPIE modernises several transformer stations for Netze BW

• SPIE is in charge of turnkey modification of several transformer stations for Netze BW, the largest distribution grid operator for electricity, gas and water in Baden-Württemberg.

• Netze BW and SPIE are thus keeping up with their long-standing practice of working together.

Ratingen, March 22nd, 2018 – SPIE Deutschland & Zentraleuropa is set to modify several transformer stations for Netze BW, a distribution grid operator based in Baden-Württemberg. Among other things, SPIE’s core mission is the installation of a gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) with 13 fields in the 110 kV high voltage range as well as medium-voltage systems i.e a total of 128 fields including the facility infrastructure. From the planning phase to the handover to Netze BW, SPIE is in charge of each stage of the operations.

Fit for the future: safe and modern grids

These renewals will help to guarantee long-term supply reliability for all households and companies connected to the grid, even if there are changes in grid requirements. “The energy transition has resulted in more and more plants that feed in energy locally”, explains Dr Andreas Kühner, head of grid development projects at Netze BW. “These power plants include photovoltaic systems and wind turbines. This leads to changes in the load flows. For Netze BW, ongoing modernisation of the transformer stations and of the entire electricity grid is therefore an important investment for the future”.

Modifying the stations during ongoing operation is a matter of trust

SPIE will modify the transformation stations during ongoing operation. This will prevent any interruption to the power supply, and the consumers will not experience any restrictions. “This major project is also a matter of trust”, says Markus Klais, who acts as Key Account Manager for the customer Netze BW as well as their parent corporation EnBW at SPIE. SPIE and Netze BW have been working together as partners for many years now and have considerable trust in each other. As a product-neutral and non-proprietary system integrator, SPIE offers service provision from a single source and operative excellence. Dr Kühner emphasises how well they work together: “SPIE meets our high requirements regarding quality, adherence to delivery dates and industrial safety”.

Paving the way for the Weinheim site

Considering the new modification projects, more than 80 employees will be assigned to the SPIE site in Weinheim. “The site is being continuously developed through the consolidation of our expertise and capacities so that we can successfully complete new construction and modernisation projects in the coming years”, says Heiko Richter, head of the switchgear installation unit at SPIE Deutschland & Zentraleuropa.