Siemens leads the efficient digital substation in Palencia

The digital substation at El Conde, located in Palencia in northern Spain and promoted by ERBI Energía, is one of the first facilities to implement digital and electrification solutions to accelerate commissioning and ensure 100% efficient service. It was developed to evacuate energy from the Casa Vieja Wind Farm, Los Pedrejones Wind Farm and El Conde photovoltaic plant.

Traditionally, the construction of electrical infrastructure required long timeframes. However, thanks to advances in digitalisation and electrification provided by Siemens, one of the first digital substations in Spain has been created.

This project has allowed the execution period to be reduced by six weeks, minimising the need for civil works, interconnection electrical cabling, cable connections and commissioning.

The merging units, UCS and UCP control equipment and protection devices are connected through a double-redundant fibre optic cable, ensuring reliable reception information.

The El Conde substation supplies power to 100,000 homes and contributes to the reduction of more than 260,000 tons of pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the reduction in civil works for control and measurement cabling conduits results in significant cost savings and a lower environmental impact.

During construction, the substation cabling and the control and protection building were carried out in parallel at the Galicia offices, allowing the assembly to be completed in a single day. Thanks to digital substation, the connection time between the outdoor switchyard and the control building was reduced by 80%, decreasing both labour hours and the risk of accidents for field workers.

The digital substation from Siemens and Sarpel not only allows adaptation to energy demand but also facilitates the integration of renewable sources into the grid. With this technology, Palencia positions itself at the forefront in Europe and is prepared to meet the growing electricity demand efficiently and sustainably, ensuring a long-term energy supply.

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About the company

Siemens Smart Infrastructure shapes the market with intelligent, adaptable solutions for energy, buildings, and industries. Addressing urbanization and climate challenges, it offers end-to-end products, systems, and services. With a growing digital ecosystem, Siemens supports customers and communities globally, driving sustainability and innovation from energy generation to consumption.

Website: Siemens España

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