Introduction of 400 kV voltage level in bahrain transmission network

This paper presents the procedures that were used to define the electrical characteristics required for the upgrade of the transmission network in Bahrain from 220 kV to 400 kV voltage level. The work presented demonstrates the approach and general methodology that was taken to mitigate the excessive short circuit levels in the existing 220 kV transmission network, whilst at the same time reducing number of required modifications and reinforcements to the 220 kV network. Attention is devoted to providing a high security of supply and to provide for future system growth and expansion. A number of system related constraints are discussed and it is explained why common operational and planning measures could not be applied to this particular network. The results presented in the paper demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach implemented.