Hitachi Energy has secured an agreement with SP Energy Networks to implement a novel power quality solution aimed at stabilising the grid and increasing the flow of renewable energy within the UK.
The initiative will support SP Energy Networks, the electricity network operator for regions including Central & Southern Scotland, Merseyside, Cheshire, North & Mid-Wales, and North Shropshire, in integrating more renewable energy sources into the grid, aiding in the transition away from fossil fuels.
The initiative will be based at the SP Energy Networks’ substation in Eccles, comprising two sets of SVC Light STATCOM and a synchronous condenser, all centrally managed by the MACH control system. This strategic integration of technology is designed to optimise the power system’s potential while ensuring enhanced system resilience and supporting the broader adoption of renewable energy.
Utilising advanced power electronics and the MACH2 control and protection solution, the STATCOM installations will deliver instantaneous voltage control and maximise power flow, setting a benchmark in the market. This project is an extension of a previous collaboration between SP Energy Networks and Hitachi Energy on the Phoenix project, endorsed by Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator.
Billy Moore, Senior Project Manager at SP Energy Networks, stated, “The innovative power quality solution will increase the transfer capacity across the UK by up to 280 MW by improving the transmission network’s strength as more renewable generation is connected in Scotland. The criticality of technology such as this will become more important as we reduce the usage of fossil fuels.”
Marco Berardi, Head of Grid & Power Quality Solutions and Service business at Hitachi Energy, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “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. 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.”
The project addresses the challenges faced by transmission system operators as the energy landscape transitions from conventional power plants to more sustainable sources. By generating or absorbing reactive power, the integrated SVC Light STATCOM and synchronous condenser aim to fine-tune grid voltage and ensure the resilience of the system.