- GE Vernova has been awarded a contract with 50Hertz Transmission GmbH to provide advanced STATCOM technology, supporting Germany’s transition to a renewable energy future.
- The 300 Mvar FACTSFLEX GFM solution, with grid formation control, will improve grid stability and resilience as Germany integrates more renewable energy sources.
- STATCOM units will be deployed at key substations in Germany, strengthening the country’s electricity infrastructure and supporting its ambitious Energiewende goals.
GE Vernova Inc. announced that it has been awarded a contract by 50Hertz Transmission GmbH, one of Germany’s four transmission system operators, to provide advanced grid stabilization technology to improve the reliability of the power grid German as it integrates more renewable energy sources.
Under this contract, GE Vernova will deliver its FACTSFLEX GFM 300 Mvar solution, a synchronous static compensator (STATCOM) solution with gate formation control (GFM). This advanced STATCOM technology (Figure 1) provides critical support for maintaining power system stability, especially when variable energy sources like wind and solar are added to the grid. Supported by Grid Forming Control software, this solution is designed to automatically adapt to fluctuations in grid voltage, thereby maintaining grid stability. The solution will also include transformers, circuit breakers and protection and control equipment to provide a fully integrated and reliable system.
The STATCOM units are expected to be designed and manufactured at GE Vernova’s network solutions facilities in Dresden (Germany) and Tampere (Finland), with additional components, including valves, supplied by Stafford (UK) and transformers by Mönchengladbach (Germany). Two STATCOM units will be deployed at the 50Hertz substation in Siedenbrünzow in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and one STATCOM unit at the Röhrsdorf substation in Saxony. 50Hertz operates the electricity transmission system in northern and eastern Germany, which it is developing according to the needs of the energy transition. More than 77 substations and switching stations are part of its network infrastructure. 50Hertz is part of the Belgian-German Elia group.
Dr. Dirk Biermann, COO at 50Hertz, said: “STATCOM solutions are a necessary and important part of the energy transition. They provide continuously variable reactive power in response to voltage variations and allow us to strengthen the resilience of our network as we progress in the integration of renewable energy. STATCOM technology supports the stabilization of power grids in an energy system with more and more fluctuating renewables and fewer fossil fuel-based power plants.
Johan Bindele, Sales Manager of GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business, added: “Our work with 50Hertz demonstrates GE Vernova’s commitment to supporting Germany’s energy transition with reliable, high-quality technology. With our STATCOM and Grid Forming Control solution, we provide advanced solutions that help maintain the stability of the German grid as the country moves towards a renewable future. GE Vernova is at the forefront of electrification and dedicated to creating a sustainable and resilient energy landscape.
Why STATCOM technology is essential to the energy transition
A STATCOM system acts as a critical stabilizer for the power grid, dynamically managing the flow of reactive power to avoid potential disruptions. As renewable energy production in Germany increases, this technology is essential to stabilize fluctuating energy inputs to ensure uninterrupted power supply for households and businesses. STATCOM is part of a broader Flexible AC (Alternating Current) Transmission System (FACTS) framework, which includes advanced equipment designed to improve grid flexibility and stability. Without solutions like STATCOM, the grid could face challenges like voltage instability and power outages, especially as it accommodates variable renewable sources.
By actively responding to grid conditions, GE Vernova’s FACTSFLEX GFM is designed to support the adaptability and resilience needed to meet the demands of Germany’s ambitious energy transition. This solution represents an advanced approach to grid balance management, providing a smoother transition to a future powered by renewable energy.
Supporting Germany’s energy transition goals
Germany’s commitment to its energy transition, or Energiewende, is one of the most ambitious in the world. With the aim of sourcing 80% of its energy from renewable energies by 2030Germany needs a robust and reliable grid infrastructure to meet new electrification demands. Projects like these play an instrumental role in supporting the country’s vision of a reliable, low-carbon energy future, and GE Vernova is proud to contribute to this mission.
Expand local expertise in high voltage technology
To further support Germany’s energy transition, GE Vernova recently inaugurated its HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) Competence Center in Berlinstrengthening local expertise and resources for high voltage technology. This center strengthens GE Vernova’s ability to meet the needs of European grid operators, providing innovative, locally driven solutions to address complex energy challenges.
—POWER edited this content, which was contributed by the external communications department of GE Vernova Network Solutions company, which is part of its Electrification segment.