Khmelnytskoblenergo, EDF agree on technical parameters for power grid modernization under 20 kV transition project
Representatives of Ukraine’s JSC Khmelnytskoblenergo and France’s EDF International Networks have agreed on the technical parameters for modernizing power grid equipment as part of the development of design and estimate documentation under a grant-funded project to transition to a 20 kV voltage level.
"The modernization provides for transitioning power grids to a 20 kV voltage level, which complies with EU standards and will improve the reliability of electricity distribution. Financing in the amount of EUR 13 million is provided under a grant from the French government," Khmelnytskoblenergo reported on its website on Monday.
The company noted that Khmelnytskoblenergo and EDF continue to implement a EUR 13 million project aimed at increasing the resilience of electricity distribution networks. The essence of the project lies in the modernization and digitalization of power grids, substations, distribution points, and in changing network voltage from 10 kV to 20 kV.
"This is the only such project in Ukraine that will be implemented using grant funds," the regional power utility added.
Within the project framework, preliminary designs for substations and 0.4/20 kV networks have already been approved, a geodetic survey of the network and substation design area has been conducted, and criteria and requirements for protecting data transmission channels have been defined.
According to the project, power grids within the selected location will be converted to a 20 kV voltage level, which will significantly improve the reliability of electricity distribution for 19,000 customers. Two 10/20 kV transformers will be installed at each of two substations, and each substation will also be equipped with one 20 kV switchgear. According to estimates, 50 km of 20 kV cable lines will be laid and 82 transformer substations will be converted to 20 kV. Fiber-optic lines will be laid alongside the cables to build an effective telemetry system, with data displayed at the dispatcher’s workstation.
According to First Deputy CEO of Khmelnytskoblenergo Yuriy Maievsky, working meetings between his company and EDF within the project framework take place several times a week.
"We have made considerable efforts to prepare and implement the project. It will be important for the development of Ukraine’s entire energy sector using modern European technologies. As a result, a clear plan for the modernization and development of the region’s power grids will be formed. And this will serve as an example for other regions of the country," he said.
Khmelnytskoblenergo also recalled that the grant project is being implemented under an agreement between the governments of Ukraine and France on assistance in restoring and supporting critical infrastructure and priority sectors of the economy, and is also aimed at fulfilling a memorandum between the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine and EDF International Network.