MHI Vestas to Use ABB’s Transformers for Walney Extension Turbines

ABB has received an order from MHI Vestas Offshore Wind for 40 special transformers to equip the V164-8.0 MW wind turbines that will form DONG Energy’s Walney Extension offshore wind farm.

The order is a follow-up of one at the end of 2014 for 32 specialty transformers to equip similar turbines for the Burbo Bank Extension offshore wind farm, located in the Irish Sea, same as Walney Extension.

The Walney Extension will provide a generation potential of 660MW in addition to the existing offshore wind farm’s 367MW. The western part of the extension, for which ABB will supply the transformers, will account for half of the new capacity – 330MW.

As announced last year, ABB has also been contracted to supply a high-voltage cable system that will bring power from the Walney Extension wind park to the mainland.

ABB transformers (9.7-megavolt ampere, 34-kilovolt) will be installed inside the turbine towers with accompanying low-voltage products.

“These transformers are specially designed to meet the specific application needs of the most powerful wind turbines and a testimony to ABB’s technology and innovation strength being a key differentiator when it comes to creating value for our customers,” said Claudio Facchin, President of ABB’s Power Grids division. “We are pleased to continue with our contribution to the integration of more renewable energy into the grid, a key focus area of our Next Level strategy.”