Australia, Central Queensland: Hitachi Energy has won a major contract from Powerlink to deliver a system strength project in Central Queensland, including the supply and installation of four synchronous condensers (syncons). The project forms part of Powerlink’s broader efforts under the Queensland Energy Roadmap to strengthen the region’s electricity network.
As demand for electricity rises and the generation mix shifts, maintaining system stability is increasingly important. Syncons play a key role by stabilising voltage and supporting reliable operation during faults or rapid changes in the grid.
Hitachi Energy will be responsible for designing, integrating, installing and commissioning the balance of plant. Its technology partner Baker Hughes will supply the syncon machines, rated at +161 MVAr and equipped with flywheels to provide inertia support for up to 1442 MW.
Powerlink Interim Chief Executive Darryl Rowell said the syncon machines are critical for delivering a once-in-a-generation programme of work at the heart of the powersystem in Central Queensland.
“Hitachi Energy were successful after a competitive global tender process,” Rowell said. “This further strengthens our relationship as trusted partners to help deliver Queensland’s Energy Roadmap and continue providing a reliable and sustainable energy future for Queenslanders,” he concluded.
Bernard Norton, Managing Director, Hitachi Energy in Australia, said Hitachi Energy is pleased to work with Powerlink to design, integrate, install and commission the balance of plant including the syncon machines for the Central Queensland project:
“As our energy landscape evolves, Queensland communities will benefit from a resilient, stable and reliable grid. These systems will reinforce the network, maintain voltage stability and inertia and support the State’s reliable grid operations. We look forward to working collaboratively together to deliver these critical system strength projects,” said Norton.
The project highlights Hitachi Energy’s ongoing role as a strategic partner in grid and power quality solutions, supporting the reliability and performance of critical energy infrastructure in Australia.
Source: Hitachi Energy
