Hitachi Energy is supplying transformers and high-voltage switchgear to the 280MW Tuci offshore wind project in China. China General Nuclear Power Corporation is developing the wind farm off the northeast coast of Xiangshan, Zhejiang province. It will comprise 35 turbines, each 8MW in capacity.

To enable the wind farm to operate steadily and reliably at 66kV voltage level, Hitachi's 66 kV WindSTAR transformers and 72.5 kV high-voltage hybrid switchgear Plug and Switch System (PASS) M00-Wind will be installed on the turbines. Designed to address the challenges of the offshore environment, the compact equipment can withstand strong vibrations, sudden movements, corrosion, and salt mists, the firm says.

Hitachi says the equipment will "help achieve longer transmission distances, reduce losses, and enable the cost-effective operation of the offshore wind farm". It also claims that the hybrid switchgear is the first of its kind to enable the collection grid between the wind towers to operate at 66 kV, which typically operates at 35 kV.

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