Siemens Energy has announced it will deliver the first-ever hybrid grid stabilisation and large-scale battery storage plant at Shannonbridge in Ireland. It said that this is the first time these two technologies have been combined into one single grid connection to stabilise the grid and make better use of renewable energy.
The synchronous condenser technology uses a generator with a connected flywheel, providing power reserve to compensate for frequency fluctuations. It is combined with a 160 MWh battery energy storage system.
Siemens Energy’s scope is the synchronous condenser, including the flywheel which will deliver around 4000 MWs of inertia onto the system; and the large-scale battery energy storage system with around 160 MWh, as well as power conversion systems, energy management system, and medium-voltage equipment. Siemens Energy said the order is worth €85 million and that work on site has already started.
Tim Holt, member of the Managing Board of Siemens Energy, said: “Innovative technical solutions are essential if we are to combat the consequences of climate change and transition to a net zero grid. Battery storage systems will play an increasingly pivotal role in tomorrow’s global energy infrastructure.”