Elecnor secures EirGrid contracts for synchronous condenser projects in Ireland

Elecnor, the engineering and infrastructure company based in Spain, has secured contracts for two strategic synchronous condenser projects in Ireland from EirGrid, the state-owned transmission system operator. The infrastructure investments will strengthen grid stability and support integration of renewable energy across Ireland's electricity network as wind and solar generation capacity expands.

PR Newswire reported that the synchronous condenser installations will provide essential grid services including voltage support, frequency stabilisation and short-circuit strength at strategic locations on the transmission network. The technology addresses technical challenges associated with high renewable energy penetration by providing inertia and dynamic reactive power capabilities.

EirGrid's procurement of synchronous condensers forms part of its Grid Development Strategy to enable Ireland's target of 80 per cent renewable electricity by 2030. As conventional fossil fuel generation retires, synchronous condensers provide grid stability services previously delivered by traditional power plants, ensuring reliable electricity supply during the energy transition.

Elecnor will design, procure, construct and commission the synchronous condenser facilities, with installations expected to be operational within 24-36 months. The projects expand Elecnor's presence in Ireland's energy infrastructure sector, building on previous transmission and renewable energy project experience.

Synchronous condensers are large rotating machines that operate without generating electricity but provide critical grid support services. The technology has become increasingly important in power systems with high shares of inverter-based renewable generation, which lacks the inherent stability characteristics of conventional synchronous generation.

EirGrid has identified multiple locations across Ireland requiring synchronous condenser installations to maintain grid stability as renewable generation increases. The procurement programme represents significant investment in enabling infrastructure necessary to achieve national decarbonisation targets.

Access full details on Elecnor's synchronous condenser projects and Ireland's grid stability infrastructure programme.