Commissioning of Substation at Nevertire Solar Farm

Project

Nevertire Solar Farm required commissioning of a new substation for connection to the 66kV network.

We performed the required High Voltage testing activities in accordance with the utilities requirements for newly installed electrical distribution equipment.

Commissioning of New Substation

The Nevertire Solar Farm substation consists of a step-up transformer, surge arrestors, disconnectors, current transformers, voltage transformers, busbars and gas insulated switchgear that all need to be passed fit for use.

We deployed its 720kV Test Unit to site as part of the commissioning plan.

Our testing of a new substation included all necessary HV commissioning tests prior to energising the substation via the high voltage switchgear.

High Voltage Applied Voltage Testing

Our task was to test the surge arrestors, disconnectors, current transformers, voltage transformers, busbars and gas insulated switchgear by applying high voltage referred to as a power frequency voltage withstand test to the complete substation. The pass criteria are that each component can withstand voltage of up to 145kV and they do not suffer electrical breakdown or audible discharges.

Connectivity

It is important to test a substation prior to connecting to the main electrical grid as faulty equipment can not only be identified early but also if not identified cause network disruptions and quality issues for the asset owner. Testing the substation at rated volts confirms the equipment’s nameplate ratings and reliability, giving both asset owner and network operator confidence that the substation is compliant to connect to the 66kV network.