Installation and Operation of ElectraNet Synchronous Condensers

South Australia is a world leader in the level of penetration of renewable energy generation. With more energy sources such as wind, solar and batteries connecting to the grid, traditional power generation sources such as coal and gas-fired units, are retiring or operating less often. This has created a shortfall in both system strength and inertia. As a response, ElectraNet has installed synchronous condensers at Davenport and Robertstown in regional South Australia to address this gap.

Andrew van Eyk, Principal Power System Engineer, and Jock Baker, Power System Capability Manager, from ElectraNet will describe the changing nature of the power system, system strength and inertia shortfalls, options to address shortfalls, installation and operation of these synchronous condensers.

Speakers

Andrew Van Eyk (B.E(Hons)), Principal Power System Engineer, ElectraNet
Andrew was the lead engineer responsible for the system integration of the synchronous condensers into the South Australian transmission system. Andrew has held technical roles at ElectraNet with a focus on network planning, modelling and power system analysis, generator connections and commissioning.

Jock Baker (B.E(Hons), BSC and MBA), Power System Capability Manager, ElectraNet
Jock has experience in utilities and mining and has held technical and leadership roles with ElectraNet, BHP and Western Power.
At ElectraNet, he leads a team of power system engineers responsible for ongoing modelling, analysis and operational planning of the power system, system integration and special protection schemes.