Transformer Replacement Projects
Project Overviews
Larne & Coleraine Main Transformer Upgrades
Larne
Larne Main 110/33kV Substation supplies approximately 31,000 customers in Larne and Ballyclare as well as the surrounding areas. As demand is forecasted to grow, the ageing transformers within the substation need to be replaced to avoid potential overload. Increased transformer capacity will enable further generation connections at the substation and the full utilisation of the current and proposed generation.
Coleraine
A technical need has been identified to increase the 110/33 kV transformer capacity at Coleraine Main Substation due to the high existing connected generation capacity in comparison to the existing transformer capacity.
Right now, a Special Protection Scheme (SPS) is in place to trip a nearby windfarm in the event of an unplanned loss of one of the existing transformers.
Benefits of the Projects
Benefits of Larne Main Transformer Upgrade
- Replacement of ageing substation infrastructure
- As demand is forecasted to grow, replacing the transformer means avoiding any potential risk of overload
- Increasing the capacity of the transformer will help accommodate connections both now and into the future
Benefits of the Coleraine Main Transformer Upgrade
- Reduces constraints on surrounding wind farms and the associated costs
- Enables the removal of the current Special Protection Scheme (SPS) and the costs associated with it
- Provides additional capacity for new generation
- Leaves adequate space for a future 110 kV expansion of Coleraine Main
Where are we now?
Larne
NIE Networks have begun construction works on the transformer replacement upgrade at Larne Main.
Coleraine
Construction of the transformer upgrade at Coleraine is set to commence in 2027 with estimated Energisation in 2028.