The 250 MVA Ararat Sychronous Condenser (SynCon) has begun operating in Australian state of Victoria and will allow an additional 600 MW of renewable energy generation to connect to the grid supporting system stability.

Weighing approximately 300 tonnes, the Ararat SynCon has been delivered by Melbourne-headquartered Australian Energy Operations. Construction of the system, which was supplied by by Austrian manufacturer Andritz Hydro, was completed by Victorian renewable company Beon Energy Solutions.

Located 190 kilometres northwest of Melbourne at Elmhurst the project is one of 12 being delivered under the state government’s AUD 480 million ($332 million) investment in strengthening the state’s grid so more renewable energy can flow to Victorian homes and businesses.

The 12 projects will unlock 2.3 GW of clean energy, or enough to power 16% of Victoria’s annual electricity needs.

VicGrid Chief Executive Alistair Parker said the project is an example of how governments can work with industry partners to deliver the energy infrastructure Victoria needs.

“[All] while ensuring local communities share in the long-term social and economic benefits,” Parker said.