The Observatory to Bellevue High Tension transformer reinstatement project is in its final stages
The critical emergency project of replacing two 88kV oil cables is part of City Power’s plan to modernise the electrical network, and should reach completion by October 11.
The MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Jack Sekwaila, announced on October 9 that the Observatory to Bellevue High Tension (HT) cable replacement and transformer reinstatement project is in its final stages, marking a pivotal milestone in the improvement of the region’s network infrastructure and service enhancement for the residents and businesses in the inner city.
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The critical emergency project of replacing two 88kV oil cables is part of City Power’s plan to modernise and reinforce the electrical network between Observatory and Bellevue substations.
“I had several meetings with the community since the fire broke out in December 2023, which caused the subsequent power supply challenges in several parts of the inner city. I have also had regular engagements with the community leadership and councillors to ensure they are updated about the ongoing plans.”
Last month, City Power isolated the overhead lines between the two substations, to start preparing for the underground cable connections to the network. This was after the teams completed the process of unearthing the 63-year-old faulty oil cables and successfully laying new ones.
The long-term project was started in May this year, following the devastating fire that gutted the Observatory substation in December 2023, worsening the condition of the old cables. After the flames damaged the infrastructure, City Power implemented a series of short, medium, and long-term measures to address the ongoing outage challenges.
Part of the measures to provide temporary relief for customers was the installation of interconnector cables between the Observatory and Bellevue substations.
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This enabled City Power to reinstate supply earlier than expected. Part of the long-term solution involved the rehabilitation of the substation and the installation of two new cables, which is now nearing completion.
So far, the installation of high-voltage (HV) cables is complete, and the required testing and phasing has successfully been conducted. This guarantees that the newly installed cables are fully operational and ready to meet the community’s demands.
Protection relays have also been installed, and the final connections for control cables are underway. The commissioning of this vital protection system is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
At Bellevue substation, a new transformer has been securely placed on its plinth, concrete slab base, with the contractor finalising the termination of the 11kV incomer cables.
The installation of control cables is progressing smoothly, and transformer testing is set to commence shortly after. Although the project encountered a minor delay, due to the necessity for comprehensive phasing and retesting of the HV cables, the team remains confident that all tasks will be finalised by October 11.
Once the commissioning process is complete, the community can expect improved electrical performance and significant outage reduction. This infrastructure upgrade is part of a broader initiative to transform the city’s power grid, facilitating future growth and development.
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