Swissgrid invests in grid infrastructure modernisation

Swiss TSO Swissgrid invested CHF128.5 million (US$141.5 million) in H1 2023 in maintenance and modernisation of grid infrastructure to ensure security of supply.

Among the activities Swissgrid has reported is work progressing on the voltage increase from 220kV to 380kV on the existing line between Bassecourt and Mühleberg – a change essential to ensure security of supply in central Switzerland, especially during the winter months.

The necessary construction measures were initiated in mid-August 2022, with existing electricity pylons and other components being modified. In total, work will be carried out on 56 of the 142 pylons and on the transition structures of the two substations in Pieterlen and Bassecourt so that the line can be put into operation at 380kV by the end of 2023.

Another project concerns the planned installation of a new transformer in the Bonaduz substation, which will increase the operational flexibility of the substation and thereby improve security of supply in the canton of Grisons and in Switzerland as a whole.

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The groundbreaking ceremony on 16 June 2023 marked the start of construction work for the installation of the new transformer and the modernisation of the substation.

In spring 2023, Swissgrid and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) also submitted a planning application for the replacement of the high voltage submarine cables between Brusino and Morcote.

With the application for the replacements on the 2.8km route, the companies are looking to guarantee the supply of electricity in the Sottoceneri region and the Ticino railway network.

In February 2023, Swissgrid completed the grid connection of the Birr reserve power plant, ensuring that it was ready for use in the last of the winter months in the event of a power shortage.

In addition, Swissgrid procured the first tranche of the hydropower reserve for the coming winter in May 2023, followed by the second and third tranches subsequently.

Looking ahead Swissgrid has said it is continuing to drive forward grid expansion in the second half of the current financial year, as the transmission system is a key success factor for the transformation of the energy system.

Current congestion, as well as any future threats of congestion, must be eliminated to guarantee the safe, powerful and efficient operation of the Swiss electricity system.