President Aliyev inaugurates modernised power substation, training lab in Yevlakh PHOTO

On June 23, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev attended the official inauguration of the newly rebuilt 110/35/10 kV “Yevlakh” Junction Substation and the Regional Training and Laboratory Center of “AzerEnergy” OJSC, marking a major advancement in Azerbaijan’s energy infrastructure and workforce development.

Baba Rzayev, Chairman of the Board of “AzerEnergy,” briefed President Aliyev on the extensive modernization efforts and the facilities’ key features, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Originally constructed 60 years ago, the old “Yevlakh” Junction Substation no longer met current energy demands. To improve the power supply for the Central Aran region, ensure uninterrupted and high-quality electricity delivery, and increase the stability and reliability of the system, the substation has been completely rebuilt.

The substation plays a vital role in providing electricity to over 180,000 people, including the entire population of Yevlakh and parts of the Barda and Ujar districts. It is also crucial for integrating green energy generated at the “Varvara” Hydroelectric Power Station into the national grid.

The upgraded substation is equipped with a new 110-kilovolt outdoor switchgear and a state-of-the-art Digital Control Center, enabling real-time monitoring of its operating mode. Employing the latest digital switching technologies, the facility guarantees full cybersecurity for its electronic resources.

Innovative technologies implemented at the substation have significantly increased efficiency by reducing planned and emergency repair costs by 35%, spare parts demand by 29%, waiting times for materials and excess spare parts by 30%, and overtime hours by 25%. A modern metering and accounting system has also been installed to enhance operational transparency.

Adjacent to the substation, a newly constructed three-story Regional Training and Laboratory Center will provide specialized engineering training and professional development in 12 different fields. The center aims to contribute to regional employment growth by preparing highly qualified personnel for the energy sector.

To support practical training, the center features a simulator equipped with transformers, modern switching devices, and components representing overhead and cable lines. It also houses advanced test and diagnostic equipment and operates specialized laboratories for chemistry and ecology, electrical equipment testing, and calibration of control and measuring devices.

The Regional Training and Laboratory Center will further support testing and diagnostic services for electrical power equipment used across distribution networks, railway infrastructure, and various industrial sectors.

By Khagan Isayev