February 03, 2026, Büyükeceli, Mersin Province, Türkiye. – The transportation and installation of the step-up generator transformers into the design positions has been completed at Akkuyu NPP (being built by Rosatom State Corporation) construction site. The equipment was transported from a storage area and installed on specially prepared foundations.
"Step-up transformers are one of the key components of a power unit's power output system. They transmit electricity generated by the turbine generator to the integrated switchgear and then to the interconnected grid of the Republic of Türkiye. The transformers are equipped with advanced protection systems and special switching devices that allow for smooth voltage adjustments", Akkuyu Nuclear JSC Chief Executive Officer Sergei Butckikh noted.
Currently, with the participation of
the manufacturer's experts, work is underway on the transformers to install
high-voltage bushings, cooling systems, as well as control and monitoring
systems.
Installation of the transformers has become an important step in preparing the power unit for subsequent operations on connecting power equipment, conducting high-voltage tests, and developing the Akkuyu NPP power output system.
About generator transformers
Step-up generator transformers are designed to convert 24 kilovolts (kV)
generated by the turbine generator to 400 kV grid voltage. They transmit
electricity from the generator to the gas insulated switchgear (GIS). Each
power unit includes four single-phase generator transformers: three operating
transformers and one standby transformer. Each transformer weighs 283 tons,
excluding consumed oil.
The equipment was manufactured in Russia by Nevsky Transformer JSC
(Saint Petersburg). The step-up generator transformers have a capacity of
533,000 kVA each and are equipped with an air-cooling system and an on-load tap
changer.
Prior to rigging, preparatory work was completed on site, including
laying foundations, installing grounding, constructing fire barriers and civil
structures of 24 and 400 kV bus ducts, as well as installing fire extinguishing
systems.
At the next stage, auxiliary equipment will be installed in the
transformer installation area. Busbars will be connected, and control,
protection, and automatic fire extinguishing systems will be installed and
commissioned. Prior to connection, the transformers will undergo a series of
high-voltage tests.
About Akkuyu NPP
Akkuyu NPP is the first-ever nuclear power
plant in the Republic of Türkiye being built by Rosatom. The Akkuyu NPP project
includes four power units equipped with Generation 3+ VVER reactors of Russian
design. The capacity of each NPP power unit will be 1200 MW.
Akkuyu NPP is the first project in the global
nuclear industry being implemented according to the Build-Own-Operate model.
Russia is developing cooperation with all interested countries. Implementation of major international projects is going on. Rosatom and its divisions take part in this work.
