TenneT Netherlands’ innovative Beter Benutten Bestaande 380 kV (BBB380) program comprises a comprehensive upgrade program, reinforcing the Dutch 380 kV high-voltage grid to be ready to accommodate increasing solar and offshore wind generation, alongside increased cross-border transmission requirements. Much of the upgrade work has so far been undertaken with ACCC® High Capacity, Low Sag conductors.
A part of this program has been the latest reconstruction, the two-circuit 380 kV line between Krimpen aan den IJssel and Geertruidenberg (KIJ-GT380). Originally built in the late 1960s, the 33.7 km line incorporates 6 extra-tall pylons of between 140m and 160m height to permit the crossing of the Beneden-Merwede, Nieuwe Merwede and Lek waterways (tallest towers in the Netherlands). The route is located to the south of Rotterdam and incorporates numerous water, road, rail and other overhead line crossings.
ACCC® Warsaw, manufactured by Lamifil in Belgium, was the selected conductor. The choice of this conductor raises permitted operating current from 2,500 to 4,000 amps, whilst reducing the overall line sag significantly.
ACCC trained technicians supervised the two contractors involved, with overall CTC / Lamifil project oversight being provided throughout the project.
TenneT’s over-winter works are intended to cause the minimum possible disruption to flora and fauna, particularly as the Netherlands is on a major routing for migratory birds. This is not without its challenges, as inclement winter weather and high winds can disrupt pulling operations.
