“1,000 tonnes of spinning metal:” Network inks deal to add four syncons to state grid

Queensland’s government-owned transmission giant Powerlink has signed a deal with Hitachi Energy for the supply and installation of four synchronous condensers that will strengthen the electricity transmission network in Central Queensland.

Powerlink and Hitachi on Tuesday announced the agreement to deliver “1,000 tonnes of spinning metal,” as part of larger effort by Powerlink to reinforce the Central Queensland network as part of the Queensland Energy Roadmap.

Hitachi Energy will design, integrate, install, and commission the balance of plant, while its technology partner Baker Hughes will supply the four, 265 tonne synchronous condensers, or “syncons”, each equipped with flywheels to manage 1,442 megawatts (MWs) in inertia.

Construction is expected to get underway in 2027 and installation of the synchronous condensers completed by the end of 2029.

Once operational, the four syncons will reinforce the Central Queensland network, maintaining voltage stability and inertia to ensure reliable grid operations.

Disturbingly, despite the widely publicised role of synchronous condensers in other states for providing extra renewable energy capacity, the Queensland government and Powerlink described the new syncons as complementing “system strength provided by existing coal generation in the market, along with other measures include grid-firming battery energy storage systems, gas turbines and pumped hydro energy systems.”

The nearly identical press releases published by the Queensland government and Powerlink both failed to indicate any future renewable energy capacity, saying only that the government’s current plans are centred around “[improving] Queensland’s existing energy assets while building what is needed for the future”.

“The Energy Roadmap is investing in coal and gas generation to safeguard domestic energy security and support industry across the State, while building the capacity needed for the future,” the press releases added.

Two of the new synchronous condensers will be built at Calliope River Substation near Gladstone, with one each at Nebo and Stanwell substations by 2029. 

“These machines will ensure the core of Queensland’s power system remains strong,” said Darryl Rowell, Powerlink interim chief executive.  

“The first two of these machines will become operational in early 2029, with the following two operational later that year. 

“Our team has been out across Central Queensland talking about the need for synchronous condensers and is engaging with communities about the specifics of the project, including the locations of the machines.”