Alstom partners with China Electric Power Equipment and Technology

The agreement is for the development of Ultra High Voltage Direct Current power transmission systems in China.

According to a release, Alstom Grid is entering into a cooperation agreement with China Electric Power Equipment and Technology Co. Ltd (CET) to develop Ultra High Voltage Direct Current (UHVDC) power transmission systems in China. CET, a 100% subsidiary of State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), is one of the biggest companies in China’s electric equipment industry.

The agreement was signed in Beijing in the presence of Cao Zhi’An, Executive Vice-President of SGCC, Wei Qinghai, General Manager of CET and Grégoire Poux-Guillaume, President of Alstom Grid.

Under the terms of the agreement, CET and Alstom will cooperate on 1100 kV and 800 kV converter transformer technology development and manufacture. DC convertor transformer technology, being a core component of the future UHVDC electrical grids, forms an integral part of the research and development project launched by SGCC earlier this year. This agreement represents another milestone in the strategic partnership between Alstom Grid and SGCC.

Mr Cao Zhi’An, Executive Vice-President of SGCC said, “This year marks the starting point for SGCC to begin its large scale HVDC construction projects. SGCC has paid close attention to the cooperation between CET and Alstom in the development of UHVDC converter transformers, and will provide its full support. Meanwhile, I express my sincere wishes to the two companies for the success of this cooperation.”

Grégoire Poux-Guillaume, President of Alstom Grid added, “The co-development of converter transformers is of strategic importance for both Alstom Grid and CET. Alstom is proud to have this significant R&D cooperation with a subsidiary of SGCC. From co-development to co-production, this agreement will take Alstom’s cooperation with SGCC to new horizons.”

Alstom is a leading global player in HVDC transmission, the fastest growing segment of the high voltage market, with major projects in execution such as the 600 kV Rio Madeira (Brazil) HVDC link, incorporating the world’s longest transmission line (2,375 km).

Through the implementation of 800 kV direct current transmission and now the move towards 1100 kV DC, China is paving the way for the even higher voltages needed for efficient transmission of bulk electricity over ever longer distances.