Retrofit solution helps Belgian energy supplier embrace circular economics and reduce operational costs
Image: ABB
Sustainable energy provider ENGIE in Belgium turned to ABB Electrification for a retrofit switchgear upgrade to future-proof, safeguard and extend the safe operating life of its electrical infrastructure across five of its combined heat and power (CHP) plants.
ENGIE, which specialises in energy supply, management, mobility solutions, solar panel installations and batteries and asset-based energy services, was looking to modernise its electrical infrastructure by extracting as much value as possible from its existing equipment with high embedded carbon and material footprints – such as switchgear metal cabinets, plates and busbars.
Fifty percent of equipment like this can be used perpetually without being replaced if outdated components such as switchgear and circuit breakers are regularly monitored, maintained and upgraded.
The ABB OneFit Retrofill Solution replaced conventional and ageing breaker components with state-of-the-art VD4G vacuum circuit breakers. The upgrade protects mission critical ENGIE assets, such as generators and transformers, against potential short circuits by isolating power interruptions within milliseconds. This prevents severe damage and lengthy plant stoppages, helping ENGIE deliver a more efficient and reliable energy supply.
ENGIE’s technology manager, Nico Verroken, said: “ENGIE is all about providing efficient and sustainable energy solutions that will support our customers in their transition to zero carbon. Our innovative heat and power plants harness the waste heat created during electricity generation and convert it to usable power for the local infrastructure, so their continuous and safe operation is absolutely essential.”
Another bonus of the OneFit Retrofill service is that upgrades can be implemented in stages and staggered to not only optimise capital expenditure, but also to allow work to be completed in short production breaks and within normal planned maintenance downtime.
ABB’s Electrification Service sales engineer, Ben Verboven, added: “Our technical expertise combined with close and transparent collaboration with ENGIE meant the best custom-made and cost-effective solution was developed for the business. The highest safety standards for employees across all five sites was guaranteed by providing an extra enclosure inside the switchgear and a closed-door operational mode, which removes the risk of electrical contact injuries.”
Comprising an adaptation kit and standard withdrawable equipment, the OneFit plug-in technology enables the new breakers and switchgear components to be simply and safely connected to a wide range of existing panels, including those of other manufacturers.
For ENGIE, this latest modernization program by ABB Electrification is a tangible example of how the circular approach of extending asset lifespan and reducing the cost of operating equipment brings both short and long-term benefits, while helping deliver performance improvements, investment optimisation and new levels of sustainable efficiency.
About the company:
ABB Electrification is a global technology leader in electrical distribution and management from source to socket. Our 50,000+ employees across 100 countries collaborate with customers and partners to shape and support global trends by developing innovative products, solutions and digital technologies that power a sustainable future for society.
