Supporting substation commissioning through high voltage testing at Nevertire Solar Farm, NSW.
Background:
Nevertire Solar Farm required commissioning of a new substation for connection to the 66kV network. In accordance with the utilities requirements for newly installed electrical distribution equipment, high voltage testing activities were completed.
Solution:
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 the 720kV Test Unit to site and performed all testing of the new substation, including necessary HV commissioning tests prior to energising the substation via the high voltage switchgear.
Outcome:
We successfully completed high voltage testing activities for the new substation at Nevertire Solar Farm.
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.
