Endesa has finalized the essential tests for the integration of the electrical systems of Tenerife and La Gomera. After successfully passing the latest trials, all components have been verified to function correctly, and both systems are now operating in sync, functioning as one. This achievement represents a significant advancement for the Canary Islands archipelago.
The synchronization occurred experimentally at 11:02 AM this Tuesday. Throughout the day, several switches with synchronization capabilities were tested. Upon completion of these final maneuvers, Red Eléctrica de España (REE) can now keep both systems coupled, with this union representing the project's most significant technical challenge.
The connection, established via a subsea cable and enhanced by new infrastructure such as the El Palmar substation in La Gomera, strengthens the energy supply for both islands. This not only increases system robustness but also improves the capacity to evacuate energy generated from renewable sources on La Gomera.
The El Palmar substation, serving 15,610 customers on the island, involved an investment exceeding 8 million euros from e-distribución, Endesa's network subsidiary. The facilities span approximately 2,700 square meters.
This substation is equipped with two 66/20 KV transformers, each rated at 40 MVA, with the potential to add a third 40 MVA transformer in the future if needed. Prior to the coupling tests, various maneuvers were conducted this month to test the El Palmar substation, currently the most modern in the Canary Islands.
The substation is linked to the Transport network of Redeia through a double three-phase subsea circuit connecting El Palmar to the Chío substation in Tenerife. The tests performed ensured the safe and efficient joint operation of both substations (El Palmar 66kV and El Palmar 20kV) to guarantee network quality and security.
