Synchronous condensers are special electric generator applications that, when grid-connected, exchange reactive energy with the grid and increase the short-circuit power. They also contribute inertia to the power grid, increasing stability in order to accommodate a rising number of renewables energy sources. Wind and solar power units are intrinsically discontinuous sources of electricity supply and characterised by low or no inertia.
Flywheel system
The latest order-wins are for synchronous condensers with a so-called flywheel system, designed and developed by Ansaldo Energia. The system boosts the overall inertia of the rotating system while minimising mechanical losses because it is contained inside a vacuum chamber.
For this tender, Ansaldo Energia chose to partner with ABB due to the latter’s expertise in implementing intelligent, robust and sustainable power grids.
ABB will supply, install and commission the system that connects the synchronous compensators to Terna’s power transmission grid, including control systems as well as monitoring and diagnostic solutions. The contract also entails 20-year maintenance services.