Big Network Renovation: DTEK improved the electrical infrastructure across the Odesa region for a million customers in 2021
The length of power grids in the Odesa region is 39,000 kilometers. 277 substations and 9,400 transformer substations make it function every day. 1 million customers are connected to the grid. DTEK Odesa Grids ensures the stable operation, renovation, and development of this entire system in the region. In 2021, after incentive RAB tariffs were adopted in Ukraine, the company launched the Big Network Renovation program and implemented projects crucial for the regional energy system.
“In 2021, we invested UAH 888.8 million in the network development in Odesa and the region. This is 86% more than in 2020. We have completed the reconstruction of the Chumka substation and the majority of works to construct the Ukraine’s first closed-type substation named Chubaevka. We reconstructed 3,711 km of overhead lines and several other significant energy facilities across the Odesa region. Together, these improvements will ensure that Odesa families and significant facilities have a reliable power supply. DTEK is a responsible business that serves the Ukraine’s interests,” says Oleksandr Fomenko, Head of DTEK Odesa Grids.
The reconstructed substation named Chumka ensures that essential facilities have a reliable power supply, such as Infoksvodokanal, the regional state administration, maternity hospital No. 1, schools, and kindergartens.
The company also reconstructed the Krymska substation, which powers other essential facilities, such as the Odesa Regional Clinical Hospital.
In 2021, DTEK Odesa Grids completed most of construction of the Ukraine's first closed-type substation 110/20 kV named Chubaevka. The substation will strengthen the central and southern energy units in Odesa. Besides, the company will be able to connect 5,000 new customers. The substation will be commissioned in the first half of 2022.
The Distribution System Operator also reconstructed and modernized eight distribution centers in Odesa and the region, increasing the voltage from 10 kV to 20 kV. A higher voltage level is associated with the power transmission capacity to customers.
In 2021, DTEK Odesa Grids built 90 transformer substations, replaced 146 oil circuit breakers with modern vacuum circuit breakers, and installed 39 reclosers on overhead lines. So that in case of a failure, there is no need to de-energize the entire line, but only the damaged section, and to prevent a large-scale blackout in the event of an emergency.
These renovated and newly built power assets will provide the residents of the region with reliable and high-quality power supply. The company will be in a position to connect new customers, including powerful industrial facilities, which contributes to the economic development of the region and the creation of new jobs.
In 2022, DTEK Odesa Grids will pursue the Big Network Renovation program.