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110 kV High-Voltage Substation, Bolsward

110 kV High-Voltage Substation, Bolsward

TruSteel Industry

Steelwork for a stronger electricity grid

The energy transition requires an electricity grid capable of transporting increasing amounts of power. In Bolsward, grid operators Liander and TenneT are working on new substations to increase the capacity of the electricity grid in Friesland. TruSteel Industry contributes to this development by manufacturing 18 tubular columns for the 110 kV high-voltage substation. On behalf of Qirion, we are responsible for the production, transportation and installation of these steel components.

Creating more capacity in the electricity grid

Electricity consumption in the Netherlands continues to rise. Households are switching to electric heat pumps and vehicles, while businesses are increasingly electrifying their operations. These developments require greater capacity in the electricity grid. The demand for transmission capacity is also growing in Friesland. Grid congestion is occurring in several locations, meaning that businesses and other large-scale consumers cannot always obtain a new or upgraded connection immediately.

With the construction of the new 110 kV high-voltage substation in Bolsward, TenneT is working to strengthen the regional electricity grid. The new substation will provide additional capacity to accommodate growing electricity demand and support the energy transition.

Tubular columns for the high-voltage substation

For the 110 kV high-voltage substation in Bolsward, TruSteel Industry is manufacturing a total of 18 steel tubular columns. The columns measure approximately 2,300 by 1,400 millimetres. Dimensional accuracy is essential throughout the process to ensure that the components meet the technical specifications of the installation.

One particular challenge is the use of a solid triangular bar measuring 13 by 13 millimetres. To achieve this specific shape and dimensions, the material is milled by our sister company MF Emmen. Production takes place in a phased process lasting approximately six weeks, followed by galvanising and coating of the components. We then take care of the transportation to the construction site and the installation ourselves.

To achieve this specific shape and dimensions, the material is milled by our sister company MF Emmen.

Connection to Wind Farm Fryslân

The new high-voltage substation in Bolsward also plays a role in the transmission of renewable electricity. A new connection will link the substation to Wind Farm Fryslân, located in the IJsselmeer. This wind farm supplies renewable energy to the electricity grid in Friesland, making it an important part of the regional energy transition.

The connection to the high-voltage substation makes it possible to transport the wind farm's generated electricity more effectively. Sufficient transmission capacity is particularly important during periods of strong winds, ensuring that the electricity produced can be fed into the grid.

Two substations, one integrated electricity grid

The new high-voltage substation is located next to De Marne I industrial estate, between Klaverweg and Witmarsumerweg in Bolsward. Two new substations are being developed at this location: a TenneT high-voltage substation and a Liander electricity substation. Their location next to each other is a deliberate choice, designed to make the connection between the high-voltage transmission grid and the regional distribution network as efficient as possible.

TenneT manages the national high-voltage transmission grid and is responsible for transporting large quantities of electricity over long distances. Liander manages the regional electricity distribution network, distributing electricity to businesses and households through medium- and low-voltage networks.