2009-01-06 - Equipment will support improvements to Wellington’s commuter rail network
Auckland, New Zealand, January 5, 2009 – ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won a 22 million New Zealand dollars order to provide electrical equipment and installation services to help ONTRACK improve Wellington’s commuter network.
ONTRACK is leading the infrastructure upgrades necessary to accommodate a fleet of new electric trains ordered by the Greater Wellington Regional Council to be introduced from 2010.
The ABB project scope includes the supply of traction transformers, AC and DC switchgear, protection systems and low and high voltage cabling for 12 new traction substations.
“This is a great opportunity for ABB to be part of an exciting rail improvement programme with ONTRACK,” said Brent Rees, Marketing and Sales Manager for ABB’s Power Systems and Power Products divisions. “ABB has a strong presence in rail electrification. Our high-quality power products and systems as well as our expertise in electric rail systems mean we are very well positioned to execute such projects.”
ONTRACK’s Wellington Region Rail Programme Director David Gordon said the new equipment will improve the reliability of services for train commuters.
“This programme of improvements isn’t just to accommodate the new trains and extend the reach of the electrified rail system. This modern equipment from ABB will improve the reliability of the rail network by supplementing what we already have in place,” David Gordon said.
“In time, commuters will be able to enjoy more reliable and frequent services.”
The Wellington Region Rail Programme is a joint initiative of Greater Wellington Regional Council, ONTRACK and Tranz Metro.
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 120,000 people.
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Issued by ABB and ONTRACK