GE Vernova to supply Chilean projects with grid stabilising technology
Image of a typical synchronous condenser – not contractual – courtesy GE Vernova
Energy tech company GE Vernova has secured an order with Transelec Holdings Rentas, a provider of high voltage systems in Chile, to deliver synchronous condensers and high-voltage substation for the Ana Maria and Monte Mina substation projects in Northern Chile.
The two projects were part of a tender for ‘Voltage Control by Short Circuit Current Contribution’, which is part of the Chilean Government’s plan to support the energy transition and decarbonisation in the country.
Massachusetts, US-based GE Vernova’s Hydro Power business will supply two synchronous condensers for the Ana María project and two others for the Monte Mina project. The scope of work also includes engineering, electrical and mechanical auxiliaries, control system, protection system, assembly at site supervision, and commissioning.
Additionally, GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business will supply the 220kV high-voltage substation including electrical engineering, transformers, GIS (Gas Insulated Substation), protection and control system, testing and commissioning to connect the synchronous condensers island with the transmission systems.
The commercial operation of the project extension is expected to begin in 2027.
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A synchronous condenser is a large rotating generator engineered to improve voltage regulation and provide energy security and grid support and stabilisation.
As wind and solar power generation is increasing in the Northern Region of Chile, synchronous condensers are expected to play a critical role in enabling the addition of renewable energy to the grid, providing the needed inertia to help avoid risks of blackouts.
Commenting in a release was Frederic Ribieras, Hydro Power CEO of GE Vernova: “GE Vernova has been committed to helping accelerate the energy transition in Latin America for a long time and we believe that the synchronous condenser is a key technology to help with grid challenges.
“GE Vernova has experience through its large synchronous condenser installed base that have similarities with the engineering of a hydroelectric generator. And, we have the manufacturing capacity and knowledge to produce it in our factory in Taubaté, Brazil.”
In the past seven years, GE Vernova has also supplied seven synchronous condensers in Brazil. The order in Chile follows a similar project just announced in the United States, where four GE Vernova synchronous condensers will be delivered to help improve grid stability in upstate New York.
Added Johan Bindele, head of Grid Systems Integration at GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business: “GE Vernova’s high-voltage portfolio and flexible AC transmission systems are key to supporting the energy transition, facilitating the expansion and modernisation of the grid.
“As a reliable player with a presence in Chile for almost a century, GE Vernova actively contributes to the country’s energy transition plans with a broad portfolio of advanced solutions.”
In Latin America, with approximately 6,600 employees working across the region, GE Vernova is serving its customers by providing solutions, such as the ones supplied to Transelec in Chile, to create a more reliable and sustainable electric power system.
