Alstom has been awarded a turnkey contract worth 400 million euros by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd, to connect Champa in Chhattisgarh to Khurukshetra in Haryana, using ±800kV 3,000 mw ultra high voltage direct current (UHVDC) technology. This advanced UHVDC system traversing 1,365 km will meet the bulk power transfer requirement from Chhattisgarh region-a hub of independent power producers of thermal power-to the load centre located in the northern region of the country.

As part of the contract, Alstom will deliver ±800kV UHVDC thyristor valves, 32 converter transformers, 400/220kV gas-and air-insulated switchgear and substation equipment, communication and SCADA. The scope of work includes overall project management, studies, design, engineering, training, manufacture, civil works at site, erection, site testing and commissioning.

The main Alstom units involved in the project will be the HVDC Centre of Excellence in Stafford (UK), and the Alstom Grid India units located at Noida, Hosur, Padappai, Pallavaram and Vadodara.