ABB’s integrated technology will provide the inertia and short-circuit current needed to maintain power supply on the islands as they absorb increasing levels of renewable energy
Red Eléctrica, a Redeia company responsible for the transmission and operation of the Spanish electricity system (TSO), has awarded ABB four orders for synchronous condensers to enhance the electricity grid, improve supply quality, and support the energy transition in the Canary and Balearic Islands. This integrated solution, including electrical and automation equipment, is crucial for maintaining stability, reliability, and continuity of island grids as they integrate more renewable energy to meet Spain’s energy transition goals. The order was booked in the first quarter of 2024, with financial details undisclosed.
This initiative is part of the Network Development Plan 2021 – 2026, aimed at integrating 67 percent renewable energy into the generation mix, advancing Spain’s 2021-2030 Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC). The PNIEC targets a 32 percent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to 1990 and an 81 percent penetration of renewable energy in the electricity system. In 2023, renewable energies accounted for over 50 percent of Spain’s generation mix, according to Red Eléctrica.
The energy transition in the Canary and Balearic Islands presents a challenge for the system operator, necessitating grid reinforcement to maintain balance and ensure reliable operations. ABB is partnering with Red Eléctrica to implement a flexible, reliable, and integrated solution using synchronous condensers. These rotating electrical machines mimic large generators to stabilize the grid during load and renewable energy production fluctuations, providing inertia, short-circuit current, and reactive power for voltage regulation.
“We are working to ensure a safer, more secure, robust, smarter, and interconnected power grid, ready for the energy transition challenge, especially in our island grids. Synchronous compensators are ideal for island systems, offering essential technical capabilities to maintain supply security and further integrate renewable energies,” said Juan Bola, Director of Systems Operation for Non-Peninsular Territories at Red Eléctrica. “ABB’s proposal for synchronous compensators offers great value with a fully integrated approach and excellent technical solutions.”
Three of the synchronous condensers will be deployed in the Canary Islands, where Red Eléctrica is advancing energy transition projects like Salto de Chira and the Tenerife-La Gomera interconnection. In the Balearic Islands, another condenser will be installed, supporting the interconnected grid between the islands and the mainland.
“Decarbonizing power generation is vital in the energy transition journey. The challenge is achieving this while maintaining stable and reliable power networks. Synchronous condensers are key to addressing this inertia challenge,” said Heikki Vepsäläinen, Division President of ABB Large Motors and Generators. “We are excited to work with Red Eléctrica on this project, demonstrating how our technology can solve inertia challenges, as it has in other island settings.”
“Through our integrated automation and electrification solutions, we deliver productivity, reliability, and energy efficiency for a low-carbon world,” said Brandon Spencer, President of ABB Energy Industries. “This is crucial for creating decarbonized power grids capable of absorbing and transmitting large amounts of renewable energy.”
ABB will provide a comprehensive and integrated solution, including initial system studies, detailed engineering of electrical and automation equipment, installation of the synchronous condensers with flywheel integration, project management, and training. The ABB Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system and long-term service support are also part of the scope, ensuring the availability and stability of energy from renewable sources.
Red Eléctrica, the first company globally dedicated solely to the operation and transmission of electricity, has developed Spain’s transmission grid over 40 years, guaranteeing secure and continuous electricity supply and contributing to societal progress. The company now plays a pivotal role in the ecological transition by preparing the transportation network for this transformation.
