Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners has closed its first investment in Ireland with the acquisition of the grid-stabilising Wexford synchronous condenser project.
The project is a proposed 963MVA.s facility to be located in County Wexford, Ireland.
Originally developed by Green Frog Power, Wexford was awarded a long-term revenue contract under the Low Carbon Inertia Services (LCIS) tender in June 2024.
The project is configured to provide critical grid services including inertia, short-circuit level, and reactive power that are essential to maintain stability in the Irish electricity grid.
“Wexford marks a significant milestone for Quinbrook as we continue to grow our grid stability portfolio and mark our first investment in Ireland,” said Keith Gains, managing director and UK regional leader for Quinbrook.
“The Wexford project underscores our commitment to building critical infrastructure that supports Ireland’s energy transition and strengthens grid resilience.
“As Ireland moves toward its goal of sourcing 80% of electricity from renewables by 2030, investments in grid stability are essential. We are excited to bring our team’s expertise to Ireland to help accelerate the shift to a more sustainable power system.”
Quinbrook is the UK’s largest private owner of synchronous condensers, with over £430m now committed for investment across its portfolio.
With three projects already operational and four more under construction, Quinbrook said it is applying its proven model to support Ireland’s transition to a more resilient and decarbonised power system.
Synchronous condensers provide grid stability by providing system inertia, reducing the risk of blackouts. While thermal generation plants create inertia through large rotating turbines, renewables such as wind and solar do not, constraining the deployment of renewable energy.
Quinbrook said synchronous condensers offer a cost-effective, zero-emissions solution to this challenge by replicating the stabilising effect of traditional generators, allowing more renewable energy to be used without compromising grid reliability.
Procurement and construction for Wexford will be overseen by Quinbrook’s long-standing delivery partner, Welsh Power. Quinbrook will fully fund the construction phase, with Wexford expected to commence operations in 2027.