Enlaza-GEB: Termocandelaria Project
Enlaza-GEB deployed SmartValve in Colombia to address congestion on nearby 220 kV circuits and provide additional generation capacity for the Termocandelaria plant.
Resolving congestion to support generation output in northern Colombia
The Termocandelaria generation plant was scheduled for expansion to help meet increasing electricity demand in the north of Colombia.
The Termocandelaria generation plant was scheduled for expansion in 2022 to meet increasing electricity demand in northern Colombia. However, studies showed that under an N-1 contingency of nearby 220 kV circuits, congestion would limit output from the plant.
Enlaza-GEB, the Group’s electric power transmission subsidiary, considered multiple options to resolve this congestion before deploying SmartValves across two 220 kV circuits to control power flows.
The solution could be installed much faster than reconductoring, helping avoid curtailment of the Termocandelaria plant and providing 252 MW of additional generation capacity with minimal impact on local communities in this urban area.
Faster than reconductoring
SmartValve provided a faster alternative to traditional reinforcement options while addressing the identified congestion.
Controls power flows
The deployment helped manage flows across two 220 kV circuits to improve the use of existing transmission infrastructure.
See the project in context
This video provides additional context on the Enlaza-GEB deployment and how SmartValve supports power flow control on the transmission network.
Enlaza-GEB project overview
A closer look at how SmartValve supports congestion relief and additional generation output in Colombia.
Additional generation capacity from the existing grid
The Termocandelaria project shows how advanced power flow control can help transmission owners resolve targeted constraints while minimizing disruption to surrounding communities.
Enables 252 MW of additional generation capacity
Helps avoid generation curtailment caused by congestion on nearby 220 kV circuits.
Improves security of supply
Supports reliable electricity supply in Colombia’s Caribbean region as demand continues to grow.
Optimizes use of substation space
Provides a compact solution that can be deployed within existing infrastructure.
Provides a flexible, scalable solution
Allows power flow control to be applied where it is needed as system conditions change.
SmartValve deployment in Colombia
A look at project images from the Enlaza-GEB Termocandelaria deployment.
Termocandelaria project: improving dispatch reliability for a generation plant
Access the full case study to learn how Enlaza-GEB used SmartValve to address congestion, control power flows, and provide 252 MW of additional generation capacity.
