Session: 21-05 Operational Flexibility

Submission Number: 176677

Synchronous Condenser Conversions a Bridge to Grid Resilience in a Renewable-Dominated Energy Landscape 

Synchronous condensers are critical to grid stability and this is especially true now with the challenges of non-traditional synchronous generators addition into it. New based renewable energy sources like solar and wind can contribute to total available energy but would fail to provide essential grid-stabilizing physics like inertia, reactive power, and system strength. Synchronous condensers are now a proven mechanical solution to the electronic challenges of a renewable-heavy grid providing stability and resilience to it. By having new renewable energy sources generating in DC, AC inverters are needed and these lack the physical inertia of a synchronous generator. The energy markets sees the retirement of large plants as a potential opportunity to convert synchronous generators into condenser operation avoiding the construction of new gas turbine generator plants with the sole purpose to stabilize the grid. Converting retired plants’ synchronous generators into synchronous condensers leverages their inherent inertia and reactive power capabilities to stabilize grid frequency and voltage, counteracting the loss of these services as traditional plants phase out. This is only one strategy - others may be discussed - to bridge the gap between the old grid’s mechanical reliability and the new grid’s electronic complexity, enhancing resiliency in an increasingly decarbonized energy landscape.

Presenting Author: Davi Jose Ferreira Squaiella Black and Veatch

Presenting Author Biography: Davi Squaiella is an electrical engineer with 26 years of experience in the design of rotating electrical machines, tools’ development, generator and motor components shop floor training, major Hydro OEMs expertise and client relations for both OEMs plus power generation facilities. His experience includes generators and motors electromagnetic & mechanical designs for both new and refurbishment projects, expertise on vertical, horizontal (hydro & turbo) and bulb machines, expertise on air cooled and water-cooled windings design for large hydro & turbo generators, machine assessments, commissioning, advising clients on solutions at pre-proposal phase, managing and developing New Product Introduction & cost-out analysis (Direct Material Productivity), design, studies, reports, specifications, manuals, cost estimates, factory acceptance tests witnessing, supervision of other technical design personnel and evaluation of third party technical design work.

Authors:

Davi Jose Ferreira Squaiella Black and Veatch