Australia, Victoria, Elmhurst: A new synchronous condenser has entered operation in Elmhurst, western Victoria, helping to unlock an additional 600 MW of renewable energy generation capacity.
The project is designed to support grid stability by helping maintain the balance between electricity generation and consumption. It can respond rapidly to sudden changes in demand, providing essential system strength as more renewable energy is connected to the network.
The Elmhurst plant is one of 12 grid-strengthening projects supported by the Victorian Government. Together, the projects are expected to unlock 2.3 GW of clean energy, enough to supply around 16 % of Victoria’s annual electricity needs.
Another major project included in the government’s $480 M investment is the Mortlake Turn-In project. This transmission upgrade will connect a second 500 kV line to the Mortlake terminal station, improving network stability and increasing generation capacity by up to 1.5 GW.
Australian Energy Operations is operating the Ararat synchronous condenser, while Victorian renewable energy company Beon Energy Solutions delivered the construction work.
VicGrid said the project demonstrates how collaboration with industry can deliver the energy infrastructure Victoria needs while supporting long-term social and economic benefits for regional communities.
VicGrid is responsible for planning and developing Victoria’s transmission projects and renewable energy zones. Its work includes infrastructure linked to the Gippsland offshore wind precinct, the Western Renewables Link, the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West and Marinus Link.
Victoria recently formalised six renewable energy zones, aimed at improving coordination of solar, wind and battery projects while reducing unnecessary transmission development.
Source: Energy
