ABB to support integration of renewables in Germany

ABB has received an order of around $30 million from Dutch-German transmission system operator TenneT to supply a stabilisation solution that is intended to enhance the reliability and quality of power as the German grid absorbs more renewable energy.

The contribution of wind and solar to Germany’s energy mix is progressing rapidly and now accounts for over 40% of the country’s electricity supply. However, as Germany’s power supply changes from a reliance on steady, centralised sources — like nuclear and thermal power — to more volatile and decentralised renewable power supplies — such as wind and solar — the country needs to address stability and fluctuation issues that affect power supplies.

ABB will deliver a hybrid static compensator (STATCOM) to be installed at the Borken substation in Hessen, Central Germany, where it will support the grid with flexible reactive power compensation and dynamic voltage support to reduce the risk of voltage collapse and power outages. STATCOM is an intelligent device that stabilises voltage fluctuations caused by the intermittent nature of wind or solar and helps to smoothly transmit this electricity.

STATCOM is part of ABB’s family of flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) technologies that help enhance the capacity and flexibility of power links. ABB’s MACH control system, a part of the ABB-Ability digital offering, acts as the brain of the STATCOM, providing monitoring, control and protection functionality that ensures efficient power supply.

“We are delighted to work with TenneT once again and support Germany’s mission to supply clean wind power to millions of people,” said Claudio Facchin, president of ABB’s Power Grids division. “Our innovative STATCOM technology will boost power transmission capacity of and improve power quality. The project exemplifies ABB’s strategic focus on renewables and leveraging technology to reinforce our position as a partner of choice for enabling a stronger, smarter and greener grid.”