Image courtesy Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, a global investment manager, has closed its first investment in the Republic of Ireland with the acquisition of the Wexford Synchronous Condenser Project, a proposed 963MVA.s. facility.
Wexford, originally developed by Green Frog Power, was awarded a long-term revenue contract under the Low Carbon Inertia Services (LCIS) tender in June 2024. The project is configured to provide critical grid services including inertia, short-circuit level, and reactive power that are essential to maintain stability in the Irish electricity grid.
Commenting in a release was Keith Gains, managing director and UK Regional Leader for Quinbrook: “Wexford marks a significant milestone for Quinbrook as we continue to grow our grid stability portfolio and mark our first investment in Ireland.
“As Ireland moves toward its goal of sourcing 80% of electricity from renewables by 2030, investments in grid stability are essential. We are excited to bring our team’s expertise to Ireland to help accelerate the shift to a more sustainable power system.”
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Synchronous condensers provide grid stability by providing system inertia, reducing the risk of blackouts.
While thermal generation plants create inertia through large rotating turbines, renewables such as wind and solar do not, constraining the deployment of renewable energy. Synchronous condensers replicate the stabilising effect of traditional generators, allowing more renewable energy to be used without compromising grid reliability.
Procurement and construction for Wexford will be overseen by Quinbrook’s long-standing delivery partner, Welsh Power.
Having successfully developed and managed construction for Quinbrook’s existing synchronous condenser projects in the UK, Quinbrook says Welsh Power brings deep technical expertise and a proven track record in delivering complex grid infrastructure.
Quinbrook will fully fund the construction phase, with Wexford expected to commence operations in 2027.
This latest investment builds on Quinbrook’s grid stability presence in the UK where it is the largest private owner of synchronous condensers, with over £430 million ($575.2 million) now committed for investment across its portfolio.
