Hitachi unveils grid-stabilizing inverter system
Next-gen technology at Narashino Works simulates power plant inertia, supporting grid resilience and renewable energy integration.
Image for illustration purposes
Japan, Chiba: Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems (HIES) has launched a next-generation Grid Forming Inverter (GFM) at its Narashino Works facility in Chiba, aimed at stabilizing power grids as the world shifts toward renewable energy. The GFM simulates the “inertia” once provided by large thermal power plants, helping maintain stable electricity frequency — critical for preventing blackouts and managing fluctuations in supply and demand.
As more renewable sources like solar and wind replace fossil fuel-based power, the loss of inertia from heavy turbine generators poses a challenge to grid stability. GFMs address this by not only responding to grid signals but actively forming and stabilizing their own microgrids.
Narashino Works now runs on a hybrid system combining 81.9 kW of solar power, battery storage, and GFM-based microgrids. The system is expected to cut annual CO₂ emissions by 39.2 t. It has essential functions like water pumps and announcement systems, even during blackouts, enhancing disaster resilience.
The facility also includes a DC microgrid that efficiently stores and reuses solar energy, reducing conversion losses and boosting energy efficiency.
HIES says the technology will be key in enabling local energy systems, supporting grid resilience, and advancing carbon neutrality goals — a major step toward modernizing infrastructure for a sustainable energy future.
Source: Evertiq
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