Siemens Energy provides stabilization solutions for Italian grid
Italian transmission system operator Terna. S.p.A has ordered two static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) systems from Siemens Energy.
Image source: Siemens Energy
Germany, Munich: Italian transmission system operator Terna. S.p.A has ordered two static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) systems from Siemens Energy.
It is Siemens Energy’s first STATCOM order from Italy and will help the country meet new power grid challenges posed by the energy transition.
The two new STATCOM systems, part of Siemens Energy’s SVC PLUS series, will be built in Villanova (Abruzzo region) and Latina (Lazio region) and will contribute to interconnections between Italy and Montenegro and mainland Italy and Sardinia. Earlier, Terna ordered two synchronous condenser plants that are now under construction in Fano and recently in Rosara (both Marche region).
Integrating a higher share of renewable energy into power systems and the increasing energy demand pose challenges to grid operators around the world. In particular, wind and solar are characterized by high degrees of volatility and intermittency. The four flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) from Siemens Energy will help Terna to manage these challenges: The two new STATCOM systems will stabilize voltage fluctuations by acting as either a source or sink of reactive power depending on the requirements of the Italian grid. They will significantly reduce the risk of voltage drops and blackouts. In addition to reactive power, the synchronous condensers will also provide short circuit power and inertia – both urgently needed to compensate for fewer conventional power plants.
“Grid operators like Terna have the tremendously important roles of reconverting and redesigning the electricity infrastructure to meet decarbonization targets without compromising grid stability and reliability,” said Beatrix Natter, Executive Vice President Transmission at Siemens Energy. “Our state-of-the-art grid stabilization technologies will help Terna to manage the growing complexity of the electricity system and offer an efficient, secure, and sustainable Italian grid.”
The two STATCOM systems based on Siemens Energy’s SVC PLUS technology operate with 125 Mvar each at 400 kV and will be the first completely containerized STATCOM solution at this voltage level.
Source: Siemens Energy