A new clean grid technology project at Pembroke power station site has gone online, acting as a shock absorber to sudden changes in supply or demand.

The synchronous condenser, in effect a large free-spinning electric motor that, by adjusting its rotor's magnetic field excitation, can dynamically generate or absorb reactive power, is the first project in a new wave of sixteen synchronous condensers under Neso's Stability Pathfinder programme.

Such devices are needed to keep the electricity system reliable as more wind and solar power comes online, and will help cut emissions, strengthen energy security, and save consumers up to £9bn in system costs over the years ahead, Neso predicts.

Historically these services were provided by large spinning generators at coal, gas and nuclear power stations. But as Britain transitions to cleaner sources of electricity, new technologies are needed to provide the same stability without relying on fossil fuels.

Director of engineering at Neso, Matt Magill, said: “Through our world-leading Stability Pathfinder programme, NESO has pioneered new markets for technologies such as synchronous condensers and Britain's first grid-forming batteries. Together, they are helping replace services traditionally provided by fossil fuel power stations, while maintaining one of the world's most secure and reliable electricity systems.”

The new synchronous condensers will nearly double the existing fleet of seventeen which are already providing Britain’s network with clean inertia. Neso’s stability programme also includes the first two grid-forming batteries in the world which were connected to Britain’s transmission network last year.

This is the fourth synchronous condenser to go live in Wales and the first to be built by RWE at its Pembroke Net Zero Centre. The location brings together battery storage, carbon capture, and green hydrogen projects on the site of its gas-fired power station.

---