Capula lands Areva contract for IFA 2000
22 May 2010
In 1961, the UK and France were linked by an electrical connection known as as IFA 160 (the 160MW Interconnexion France-Angleterre). Results were disappointing, with cables regularly caught in fishing trawler's nets. So in 1974, the countries agreed to build a new link, with cables laid in trenches dug into the seabed running from Les Mandarins, near Calais to Sellindge in Kent. Named IFA 2000, and carrying a 2000MW power rating, the link began service in 1986, allowing electricity exchanges between England and the rest of Europe.
In July 2008, French state-owned nuclear firm Areva was awarded a £50 million contract to upgrade the subsea interconnection. The contract would see Areva replace the high-voltage converter equipment and the control and cooling system on what is the world's largest subsea high-voltage direct current scheme.
Earlier this year, Capula was successful in securing the design and build of a large number of cubicles for the refurbished terminals at either end of the connection. A high profile project, it was facilitated by our high calibre procurement, which enabled us to source large volumes of complex equipment subsequently allowing Areva to meet their target schedules. Final delivery is scheduled through 2010 to 2011, with work having already been completed on some cubicles.
"Naturally we're very pleased to have secured this contract with Areva," said Capula's Business Development Director Simon Coombs, "It speaks volumes for our delivery record and standards of quality that we've been engaged in a project of this magnitude, and our highly-skilled engineers are well-placed to meet the technical demands of such complex cubicles."
If you would like further information, please e-mail our Business Development Team: sales@capula.co.uk
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