NSW secures critical grid-stabilising machines to support renewables rollout

GE Vernova will supply the first order of synchronous condensers to be deployed at five strategic sites on the NSW transmission network, following the completion of a global tender process that began with a request for proposals from leading energy equipment manufacturers in February.

In order to fast-track delivery, GE Vernova will be supplying and installing two smaller synchronous condensers at each of the five sites, rather than one larger synchronous condenser at each site.

This contract follows the NSW Government’s direction to Transgrid to accelerate procurement of the synchronous condensers as a Priority Network Infrastructure Project, with the tender overseen by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Transgrid Executive General Manager Network Jason Krstanoski said the accelerated process has shaved two years off the delivery schedule for this equipment, identified as critical in Transgrid’s system strength plan.

“We are delighted to have secured these machines in a global environment where demand for synchronous condensers continues to outpace manufacturing capacity, and we are competing with countries with much larger order books,” he said.

“Synchronous condensers are large spinning machines that mimic the grid-stabilising role of coal generators, enabling the NSW power system to more rapidly accommodate renewable energy generation, delivering cleaner and cheaper electricity to consumers.

“Meanwhile, we are preparing to launch our tender for stabilising services from grid-forming batteries, which comprise another important component of our system strength solution to keep the NSW grid strong.”

Mr Krstanoski said Transgrid is confident it has found a strong partner in GE Vernova, which will also provide long-term operational support and asset maintenance.

“GE Vernova has supplied dozens of synchronous condensers for customers in the UK, Europe and North America,” he said.

“Locally, they have successfully completed installations of this equipment for South Australian transmission company ElectraNet at the Davenport Substation in Port Augusta, and for the Murra Warra II Wind Farm in Horsham, Victoria.”

GE Vernova Power Conversion & Storage Business Leader, Ed Torres, said the company is proud to bring its synchronous condenser technology to the Transgrid project.

“The implementation of GE Vernova’s proven technology will enhance grid stability and reliability, thereby strengthening New South Wales’ transmission network and ultimately supporting Australia’s goal of achieving a more secure and decarbonised power system," he said.

Given the global supply constraints for synchronous condensers, Transgrid is already exploring options to efficiently secure the next order of these machines as part of planning to facilitate the retirement of NSW coal generators over the next decade.

A separate tender for site enabling works will be completed in the coming months. The delivery schedule for the synchronous condensers will be confirmed once all procurement processes have been finalised.

Media enquiries: James Atkinson 0475 965 030 / james.atkinson@transgrid.com.au