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GE Vernova secured a contract with 50Hertz Transmission GmbH to deliver advanced STATCOM technology, supporting Germany’s transition to a renewable energy future
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The 300 Mvar FACTSFLEX GFM solution, with Grid Forming Control, will enhance grid stability and resilience as Germany integrates more renewable energy sources
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STATCOM units will be deployed at key substations in Germany, further strengthening the country’s electrical infrastructure and supporting its ambitious Energiewende goals
GE Vernova Inc. announced it has secured a contract from 50Hertz Transmission GmbH, one of Germany’s four transmission system operators, to provide advanced grid-stabilizing technology with an aim to enhance the reliability of Germany’s electrical power grid as it integrates more renewable energy sources. As part of this contract, GE Vernova will deliver its 300 Mvar FACTSFLEX GFM solution, a Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) solution with Grid Forming Control (GFM). This advanced STATCOM technology (Figure 1) provides essential support for maintaining the stability of the power system, especially as variable energy sources like wind and solar are added to the grid. Supported by Grid Forming Control software, this solution is designed to automatically adapt to fluctuations in the grid voltage, keeping the grid stable. The solution will also include transformers, circuit breakers, and protection and control equipment to provide a fully integrated and reliable system.
1. Virtual model of a STATCOM facility. Courtesy: GE Vernova The STATCOM units are planned to be designed and manufactured at GE Vernova’s grid solutions facilities in Dresden (Germany) and Tampere (Finland), with additional components, including valves, supplied from Stafford (UK) and transformers from Mönchengladbach (Germany). Two STATCOM units will be deployed at 50Hertz’s substation at Siedenbrünzow in Mecklenburg Western-Pomerania and one STATCOM unit at the Röhrsdorf substation in Saxony. 50Hertz operates the electricity transmission system in the north and east of Germany, which it expands as needed for the energy transition. More than 77 substations and switching stations are part of its grid infrastructure. 50Hertz is part of the Belgian-German Elia Group. Dr. Dirk Biermann, Chief Operating Officer with 50Hertz, said: “STATCOM solutions are a necessary and important element of the energy transition. They provide continuously variable reactive power in response to voltage variations and allow us to strengthen the resilience of our grid as we move forward with renewable energy integration. STATCOM technology supports stabilizing the power grids in an energy system with more and more fluctuating renewable energies and less power plants based on fossil fuels.” Johan Bindele, business leader at GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business, added, “Our work with 50Hertz demonstrates GE Vernova’s commitment to supporting Germany’s energy transition with high-quality, reliable technology. With our STATCOM solution and Grid Forming Control, we are bringing advanced solutions that help keep Germany’s grid stable as the country moves toward a renewable future. GE Vernova is at the forefront of electrification, dedicated to empowering a sustainable and resilient energy landscape.”
Why STATCOM Technology Is Essential for Energy Transition
A STATCOM system acts as a critical stabilizer for the electrical grid, dynamically managing reactive power flow to prevent potential disruptions. As Germany’s renewable energy generation increases, this technology is critical in stabilizing fluctuating energy inputs to achieve uninterrupted power for households and businesses. STATCOM is a part of a broader Flexible AC (Alternating Current) Transmission System (FACTS) framework, which includes advanced equipment designed to enhance grid flexibility and stability. Without solutions like STATCOM, the grid could face challenges such as voltage instability and power disruptions, particularly as it accommodates variable renewable sources. By actively responding to grid conditions, GE Vernova’s FACTSFLEX GFM is designed to support the adaptability and resilience needed to meet the demands of Germany’s ambitious energy transition. This solution represents an advanced approach to managing grid balance, providing a smoother transition to a renewable-powered future.
Supporting Germany’s Energy Transition Goals
Germany’s commitment to its energy transition, or Energiewende, is one of the world’s most ambitious. With the goal of sourcing 80% of its energy from renewables by 2030, Germany requires a robust and reliable grid infrastructure to meet the new electrification demands. Projects like these are instrumental in supporting the country’s vision for a lower-carbon, reliable energy future, and GE Vernova is proud to contribute to this mission.
Expanding Local Expertise in High-Voltage Technology
To further support Germany’s energy transition, GE Vernova recently inaugurated its HVDC (High-Voltage Direct-Current) Competence Center in Berlin, strengthening local expertise and resources for high-voltage technology. This center enhances GE Vernova’s capacity to address the needs of European grid operators, providing innovative, locally driven solutions for complex power challenges. —POWER edited this content, which was contributed by the External Communications department of GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business, which is part of its Electrification segment.
