In a significant step towards achieving net-zero fossil carbon dioxide emissions, Mälarenergi has partnered with ABB to modernize its cogeneration plant in Västerås, Sweden. This strategic retrofit project focuses on upgrading the plant's switchgear with cutting-edge solutions, contributing not only to reduced emissions but also enhanced operational efficiency.
Mälarenergi, one of Sweden's major energy providers, is on a mission to reach net-zero fossil carbon dioxide emissions. To support this goal, the company has teamed up with ABB to revamp its cogeneration plant in Västerås. The key to this transformation lies in replacing the aging circuit breakers with state-of-the-art Emax2 models, featuring Ekip Hi-Touch relay protection and energy metering technologies. These innovations not only ensure the safety of electrical circuits but also bring about significant reductions in energy consumption, leading to valuable cost and resource savings.
One of the remarkable aspects of this retrofit is its environmental impact. By extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure components, the project prevents the need for manufacturing an entirely new system. This not only reduces carbon emissions but also eliminates the additional transportation costs and emissions associated with system replacement.
Mälarenergi's cogeneration plant in Västerås is a vital part of the city's sustainable development, providing district heating to 98 percent of the local properties. The plant relies solely on renewable and recycled fuels, producing 1800GWH of heat and 700GWH of electricity annually. This facility has continuously integrated modern technologies since the 1960s to enhance uptime and minimize environmental impact.
Rolf Bäckström, a maintenance engineer at Mälarenergi, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This retrofit project is a step in our journey towards zero, achieving net-zero emissions of fossil carbon dioxide. The fact that we are doing it together with a supplier who is on the same sustainability journey as Mälarenergi feels extra special."
The retrofit was executed in three stages, with each switchgear cabinet requiring customized solutions. Besides environmental benefits, the modernization effort offers operational advantages. By upgrading the electricity system and switchgear with cutting-edge electronics designed for long-term use, Mälarenergi can avoid unplanned downtime, ensure predictable delivery to its customers, and enhance safety for both personnel and equipment.
Amer Filipovic, project manager for ABB's Electrification Sweden business area, highlighted the positive outcomes of this approach. "By modernizing its electricity system and upgrading the switchgear, Mälarenergi is reducing its total cost of ownership, maximizing the return on investment, and avoiding unplanned downtime. Using this method, we've seen some of our customers' facilities reduce equipment operating costs by a third while extending their life cycle by as much as 30 years."
The partnership between ABB and Mälarenergi is a testament to the commitment of both organizations towards a sustainable and environmentally responsible future. It showcases the potential of retrofit solutions to drive tangible results in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the reliability and efficiency of critical infrastructure.
Source: ABB