China achieves a world first, updating stabilisers for renewable energy grids
Researchers said their 35kV direct-connection synchronous condenser successfully passed testing, in repurposing of old technology
The state-run China Electric Power News said on April 10 that a 35-kilovolt direct-connection rotating machine developed by Dongfang Electric Machinery had successfully passed testing earlier that day.
The successful test made Dongfang’s synchronous condenser the first in the world to reach such a high voltage, eliminating the need for intermediate step-up transformers to achieve direct grid connection, the report said.
This has been driven by the rapid installation of wind and solar power, particularly in the country’s northern and western regions, with their abundant natural energy resources.
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Synchronous condensers were first used in the 1920s to handle the unused reactive power that oscillates between source and load in hydroelectricity generation, according to energy equipment manufacturer GE Vernova.