'More affordable future for everyone': New ground broken on first of its kind energy infrastructure in Northern Ireland
Building on the successful delivery of two Synchronous Condenser projects in the north west, SONI have launched a second phase of procurement for additional new renewable integration technologies
A major step forward in Northern Ireland’s electricity system has been marked with the expansion of innovative grid-stabilising technology, as the system operator continues its drive to support higher levels of renewable energy on the network.
SONI has announced the launch of a second phase of procurement for additional renewable integration technologies, building on the successful delivery of two earlier projects in the north west.
The development centres on the use of Synchronous Condenser units, machines that help stabilise electricity systems as more renewable generation such as wind and solar is added. The technology provides what are known as low-carbon inertia services, helping the grid remain balanced and secure without relying on fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas.
As Northern Ireland transitions toward cleaner energy sources, the system must maintain stability to ensure reliable electricity supply for homes, farms, businesses and public services. Traditionally, this stability was provided by large conventional power stations, but synchronous condensers are now being deployed to deliver the same service with significantly lower carbon emissions.
Six synchronous condenser projects have already been procured across the island of Ireland, with two currently under construction in Northern Ireland at Coolkeeragh Substation and Coleraine Substation.
Following the completion of the first procurement phase in 2024, the programme has now moved into a second phase aimed at delivering additional units to further strengthen grid resilience and support increased renewable generation.
SONI chief executive Alan Campbell said the expansion marks a significant milestone in the transition to a cleaner power system: “The second phase of procurement for these services is a considerable milestone on our journey to delivering a carbon-free power system.
“Managing a power system in transition involves carefully balancing the integration of renewables onto the electricity grid while maintaining the stable and secure supply of electricity we all rely on.
"Synchronous Condensers are an innovation that will help our grid engineers manage this challenge and deliver a cleaner, secure and more affordable future for everyone in Northern Ireland.