SP Energy Networks orders innovative grid balancing power solution
The project, located at SP Energy Networks’ substation at Eccles, consists of two sets of an SVC Light STATCOM and a synchronous condenser controlled centrally by the MACH control system. Image courtesy Hitachi Energy
Hitachi Energy has won an order from SP Energy Networks to design and deliver an innovative power quality solution to balance the grid and boost the flow of renewable energy across the UK.
The solution, which the tech company calls a first-of-its-kind, will enable the UK electricity network operator to add up to 280MW of additional renewable energy to the electricity grid, with the potential to power over 360,000 homes.
The project, located at SP Energy Networks’ substation at Eccles, consists of two sets of an SVC Light STATCOM and a synchronous condenser controlled centrally by the MACH control system, connected at a common electrical node.
In this project, the SVC Light STATCOM and synchronous condenser with combined control generates or absorbs reactive power to adjust grid voltage and maintain system resilience.
Each STATCOM installation uses Hitachi Energy’s MACH control and protection solution to provide system strength, instantaneous voltage control and enable maximum power flow.
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“The innovative power quality solution will increase the transfer capacity across the UK by up to 280MW by improving the transmission network’s strength as more renewable generation is connected in Scotland,” said Billy Moore, senior project manager at SP Energy Networks. “The criticality of technology such as this will become more important as we reduce the usage of fossil fuels.”
“We are delighted to have co-created this innovative solution with SP Energy Networks, which will maintain grid stability and enable more clean electricity to flow through the system in the UK,” said Marco Berardi, head of grid & power quality solutions and service business at Hitachi Energy.
“This pioneering innovation is yet another addition to our ever-evolving portfolio of power quality solutions that help grid operators overcome the immediate and long-term challenges of the energy transition.”
SP Energy Networks is the electricity network operator for Central & Southern Scotland and Merseyside, Cheshire, North & Mid-Wales and North Shropshire.
The technology builds on an earlier collaboration between the operator and Hitachi Energy on the network innovation competition project Phoenix supported by Ofgem, the energy regulator for the UK.
