ABB Technologies has won an order worth $54 million from the South African power utility, Eskom, to provide electrical and automation solutions that will improve reliability and energy efficiency at three of its largest power plants.

As the turnkey contractor, ABB is responsible for the design, installation and commissioning of the electrical and automation equipment. ABB will also conduct a performance analysis and refurbishment of motors in the plants to boost efficiency and extend the service life of the thermal power stations, which are located in the north-east of the country. Each plant has six generating units and a combined capacity of about 4,000 megawatts.

“Energy-efficient generation can make a significant contribution to our collective effort to reduce fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions,” said Peter Leupp, head of ABB’s Power Systems division. “Our innovative technologies, extensive global experience, and knowledge of power generation processes, enable our customers to enhance the reliability and efficiency of their power plants.”

ABB will supply key equipment like dry-type transformers and energy-efficient variable-speed drives, as well as several other products for the plants. The drives will optimize the performance of boiler-feed water pumps that typically consume around 2.5 percent of the energy generated by a coal-fired power plant.

"Technology transfer has provided ABB in South Africa with the opportunity to gain expertise in energy efficient technologies and develop local capabilities in engineering, design and project management," said Carlos Poñe, Chief Executive Officer, ABB in South Africa.

Eskom is responsible for the generation, transmission and distribution of almost 95 percent of South Africa’s electricity. South Africa alone accounts for about three-fifths of all the power consumed on the African continent.