ABB has introduced a pre-engineered, modular synchronous condenser package aimed at helping data centre operators maintain grid stability as electricity demand rises due to AI workloads.
The company says the solution is designed to manage power fluctuations at the grid connection point, delivering instantaneous inertia and dynamic reactive power to support voltage and frequency stability in real time.
The fully integrated package includes a synchronous condenser, flywheel, starting system, lubrication system, cooling options, an e-house, and an optional noise enclosure. The flywheel, designed for electrical network stabilisation, comes with an integrated safety enclosure, removing the need for additional barriers. ABB also states that delivering the system as a single package across mechanical, electrical and control components reduces on-site complexity and shortens installation time.
According to the company, the modular design allows operators to achieve faster commissioning, simplify grid approval processes by addressing stability requirements early, and expand capacity without major redesign of core power systems.
David Bjerharg, Business Line Manager for High-Speed Synchronous at ABB, said that growing AI-driven data centre demand is making grid stability a key requirement for expansion, and that the new system allows operators to connect more quickly while maintaining reliable operation from the outset.
ABB has expanded its data centre portfolio in recent years through acquisitions, including Irish consultancy Premium Power in February to strengthen advisory services. It also acquired UK-based IPEC, a specialist in electrical diagnostics, and took a minority stake in OctaiPipe, an AI firm focused on optimising data centre cooling.
Source: DCD
