ABB to deliver communication technologies to advance smart grid development in Iraq

ABB, the global power and automation technology group, has won an order from LS Industrial Systems (LSIS) to deliver a utility communications solution that will serve seven electricity distribution control centers in Iraq. The project is part of a larger infrastructure improvement initiative currently being carried out by the Ministry of Electricity in Iraq, aimed at establishing a dependable power network to support economic and social development in the country. The order was booked in the second quarter.

ABB will deliver a communications system, capable of transmitting data from 428 distribution substations and 150 maintenance centers in the grid to seven regional control centers. The system will include broadband wireless radios to carry both data and voice transmissions, ensuring reliable operation of the grid and supporting the speedy identification, isolation and resolution of faults.

"The establishment of an effective communications system is key to the reliability and efficiency of the grid" said Jens Birgersson, head of ABB's Network Management business unit, a part of the company's Power Systems division. "The breadth of our portfolio and expertise in smart grid technologies enables us to provide a multicomponent system from a single source."

Communications play a key role in coordinating operations in electricity networks. It provides the high-performance data services required by most operational networks and supports multiple applications. For this project, that includes operational telephony and SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) services.

The high-capacity wireless communication network being delivered in Iraq will bring a number of advantages to the grid. The radios can communicate over distances in excess of 50 km to provide a scalable, highly flexible and cost-effective solution. Wireless communication is well-suited to challenging terrains and built-up areas.

ABB's comprehensive communications offering comprises fiber optic, power line carrier and wireless services, including the recently acquired Tropos wireless mesh technologies, enabling ABB to serve customers in the power, transportation, mining and public infrastructure sectors.

ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 145,000 people.

Source: ABB