Statkraft and National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) have unveiled the Keith Greener Grid Park in Scotland, which will help increase the amount of renewable energy delivered via the national grid network and reduce costs for the consumer.
The project addresses the need for grid stability and uses two rotating stabilisers, manufactured by GE Power Conversion, to increase the amount of renewable energy that can utilised on the grid.
Statkraft’s £25m project, mimics the spinning turbines of a traditional power station, which have helped to balance the grid’s frequency at about 50 hertz for decades.
Scottish Cabinet secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport Michael Matheson (pictured, left) said: “One of the biggest instruments in decreasing the effects of the energy price hikes is to add more domestic and renewable resources to the power supply system.
“The Keith Greener Grid Park is a prime example of ways this can be done – and it was encouraging today to hear more from the technical team behind the trailblazing project.”
A £44m deal between Statkraft and National Grid ESO will see a similar site become operational in Liverpool, and Statkraft said its plans for four further projects to be consented and under construction, with a large number of developments in the pipeline.
Statkraft UK head of grid integration Guy Nicholson said: “The Keith Greener Grid Park is one of several projects that Statkraft is championing across the UK.
“Having worked across the country for more than 15 years, we are committed to supporting the UK’s ambition for green energy and net zero targets. We are offering cheaper and greener solutions, reducing emissions, and saving money for electricity consumers.
“The Keith Greener Grid Park is a huge step forward in helping the ESO to operate Great Britain’s electricity system carbon-free by 2025.
“Our grid network needs to adapt to accommodate the rapid increase in renewable energy generation – Statkraft is providing solutions to do just that.”