380 KV voltage level

380 kV substations

We design and build extra-high-voltage substations to connect large power generation plants, battery storage facilities, and industrial and infrastructure projects to the transmission grid. In the 380 kV range, we are developing central grid nodes that meet the most stringent requirements in terms of availability, protection systems, control systems, communications, health and safety, and construction. WT combines many years of experience in energy technology with structured project management – from the early concept phase right through to commissioning.

Aerial view of a large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) with a 380 kV substation, power transformers, high-voltage switchgear and grid connection point, with a wind farm in the background.

Areas of application

Why we build 380 kV substations

380-kV substations form key network hubs and connect major projects to the transmission grid.

Generation and storage

Connection of large wind and solar farms, as well as battery storage systems, which feed high levels of power into the transmission grid and draw power from it.

Industry and Infrastructure

Connection of industrial and infrastructure projects with high power requirements to the higher-level grid tiers.

Critical infrastructure

Extra-high-voltage substations act as central network hubs with the most stringent requirements in terms of availability, redundancy and reliability.

All under one roof

Turnkey, with clear lines of responsibility

We regard our 380 kV substations as components of critical infrastructure. For this reason, in addition to their electrical function, we place particular emphasis on redundancy, reliability, cyber security, documentation in accordance with standards, and safe, controllable operation. We design our protection, control and communication systems based on modern substation automation in accordance with IEC 61850 – the foundation for interoperable, future-proof and digitally integrated substations.

WT has already been commissioned to carry out projects involving the construction of 380-kV substations and is actively expanding this area of its business. In addition, our technical experts contribute their practical knowledge through specialist lectures at universities, thereby combining theory with real-world project experience in the field of modern grid infrastructure.

Your project journey

From the concept phase to grid integration

01

Concept & Connection Plan

We develop technically sound connection concepts and coordinate them closely with customers, transmission system operators, planning stakeholders and regulatory authorities.

02

Engineering & Procurement

Detailed engineering and procurement of primary and secondary equipment, including support with regulatory approvals.

03

Construction & Assembly

Construction coordination and installation of the system, from the switchgear to the control systems.

04

Commissioning & Grid Integration

Testing, commissioning and connecting the substation to the transmission grid.

Grid connection

Connection to the transmission grid

Connection to the transmission grid is a key prerequisite for the integration of large-scale feed-in and storage capacities. We develop technically robust connection concepts for 380-kV substations and coordinate these closely with customers, transmission system operators, planning stakeholders and regulatory authorities. In doing so, we take into account the grid connection point, space requirements, cable routing, switchgear design, transformation, short-circuit resistance, protection strategy, control systems and subsequent operational management.

Our aim is to achieve a secure, standards-compliant and scalable grid connection. To this end, we do not view the substation in isolation, but rather as an integral part of the wider transmission grid. This enables us to develop solutions that integrate the grid operator’s technical requirements, project-specific constraints and future operational requirements at an early stage.

Structure

What a 380 kV substation consists of

An overview of the key components – from primary technology to digital station automation.

Transformation between grid levels and the associated high-voltage equipment.

Scope of Services

Current scope of services: 380 kV

The current scope of services in the 380 kV business unit comprises the technical design, planning, project coordination and implementation of extra-high-voltage substations, as well as their grid connection. This includes, in particular, engineering, support with regulatory approvals, procurement, construction coordination, installation, commissioning and grid integration.

There is a particular focus on primary and secondary technology. We design and integrate AIS and GIS switchgear, power transformers, high-voltage equipment, on-site power supply systems, earthing systems, cable and control systems, as well as protection, control and telecontrol technology. Digital substation automation is designed in accordance with IEC 61850.

By closely integrating engineering, procurement, construction, assembly and commissioning, we minimise interfaces and establish clear lines of responsibility. At the same time, we take into account the specific requirements of critical infrastructure: high availability, redundancy, robust communication channels, cybersecurity, traceable testing procedures and comprehensive technical documentation.

Feed-in

Feed-in and grid connection

380-kV substations form the interface between large feed-in facilities, battery storage systems and the transmission grid. They enable the reliable feed-in of high levels of power from wind and solar farms, energy storage projects and industrial grid connections, and provide the technical link to the higher-level grid tiers.

To ensure a stable grid connection, we take all relevant system requirements into account: connected load, transformation, switchgear design, protection and control technology, reactive power capacity, grid interactions, communication with the grid operator and operational management. Particularly in the case of volatile feed-in from renewable energy sources, rapid fault detection, selective protection functions and reliable remote monitoring are crucial.

Battery storage systems are becoming increasingly important in 380-kV systems. They can provide flexibility, reduce grid congestion and support system services. WT integrates storage solutions, both in terms of planning and technical implementation, into the overall system comprising the substation, grid connection, control technology, protection concept and operational strategy.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions about 380 kV substations

A connection to the 380-kV extra-high-voltage grid is particularly suitable for large wind and solar farms, battery storage facilities and energy-intensive industrial projects. Whether a connection to the 110 kV high-voltage distribution grid or the 380 kV transmission grid is required depends on the planned connected load, the available grid capacity and the technical requirements. The relevant grid operator assesses the suitable grid connection point. WT Energiesysteme then develops the appropriate grid connection concept on this basis.

Your contact person

Talk to us about your 380 kV project

The sooner we are involved, the easier it will be to plan your grid connection. Let’s go through your project together.

Henriko Peplow

Head of the 380 kV Business Unit

Enquire about a project