03 August 2017, Sweetcrude, Zurich, Switzerland -– Grid stabilization technology and ABB Ability-based control system to enhance power reliability
ABB has received an order of around $30 million from the Dutch-German transmission system operator, TenneT, to supply a stabilization solution that will enhance the reliability and quality of power as the grid absorbs more renewable energy. The order was booked in the second quarter of 2017.
Germany’s “Energiewende” energy transition roadmap aims for a renewable energy target of at least 80 percent by 2050. The contribution of wind and solar to the energy mix is progressing rapidly and now accounts for over 4o percent of Germany’s electricity supply. However, as Germany’s power supply changes from a reliance on steady, centralized sources – like nuclear and thermal power – to more volatile and decentralized renewable power supplies, such as wind and solar, the country needs to address stability and fluctuation issues that affect power supplies.
As part of the solution, ABB will deliver a hybrid Static Compensator (STATCOM) to be installed at the Borken sub station in Hessen, Central Germany. It will support the grid with flexible reactive power compensation and dynamic voltage support, to reduce the risk of voltage collapse and power outages.
ABB’s STATCOM is an intelligent device that stabilizes voltage fluctuations caused by the intermittent nature of wind or solar and helps to smoothly transmit this electricity. ABB’s advanced MACH™ control system, a part of the ABB-Ability™ digital offering, acts as the brain of the STATCOM, providing essential monitoring, control and protection functionality that ensures reliable and efficient power supply.
“We are delighted to work with TenneT once again and support Germany’s mission to supply clean wind power to millions of people,” said Claudio Facchin, President of ABB’s Power Grids division.”Our innovative STATCOM technology will boost power transmission capacity of and improve power quality. The project exemplifies ABB’s strategic focus on renewables and leveraging technology to reinforce our position as a partner of choice for enabling a stronger, smarter and greener grid.”
ABB’s hybrid STATCOM is part of ABB’s family of Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) technologies that help enhance the capacity and flexibility of power links. ABB has delivered more than 800 FACTS installations around the world.
