Retrofit with foresight – grid renewal with environmentally friendly terminations, without replacing cables

The challenge

The Spanish grid operator i-DE Redes Eléctricas Inteligentes, part of the Iberdrola Group, is facing the interesting challenge of modernizing the outdated porcelain terminations of a 132 kV line in the Madrid region – without replacing the existing cables. This task calls for an innovative approach, as conventional solutions would require complex and expensive cable changes.

The solution

PFISTERER has developed oil and gas-free EST retrofit terminations that can slide easily onto the existing cable. These high-tech terminations adapt flexibly to all XLPE cables up to a conductor cross-section of 2,500 mm² and can be individually adapted to special cable types, such as the EPR cables used by i-DE. The solution not only impresses with its versatility for substations and pylons, but also with its maintenance-free operation and outstanding environmental safety.

Products used

EST retrofit terminations for voltages from 72.5 to 170 kV
Solid-insulated, oil- and gas-free terminations

Special features

The retrofit terminations are not only explosion-proof, but also offer comprehensive protection against risks to the environment, as they offer no possibility of environmental pollution or damage. They require no maintenance over their entire service life, which in terms of installation and maintenance offers considerable cost benefits.

Customer testimonials

„In addition to the cost benefits in terms of installation and maintenance, the environmental aspect is just as important to us when it comes to renewing energy infrastructure sustainably.“

Jose Miguel Sánchez Pereira, Head of Maintenance for EHV Lines Central Region at i-DE

Press Release