ABB Completes Quebec-NB Link Upgrade Supporting HVDC Transmission of Renewables

January 19, 2017

ABB has completed a major upgrade of the 350 megawatt (MW) Madawaska high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission link that connects the grids of Quebec and New Brunswick.

The back-to-back converter station in Madawaska, PQ has been operating for more than 30 years. The modernization is expected to significantly improve grid reliability and reduce maintenance needs.

The project, executed for Hydro-Québec, included installating ABB’s latest generation MACH control and protection system and enhancing the valves and associated cooling system.

“ABB’s digital MACH control and protection system acts like the brain of the HVDC link, incorporating advanced fault registration and remote control functions, supporting our efforts to support customers with increased grid automation and digitalization,” explains Claudio Facchin, President of ABB’s Power Grids division. “This upgrade will enhance power availability, reduce outages and improve grid reliability in the region.”

ABB has extensive experience in upgrading HVDC links around the world, as many such installations are coming of age. This is the 23rd major HVDC modernization project awarded to ABB since 1990.