ANDRITZ to build synchronous condenser facilities to strengthen grid stability in Texas

The GE Vernova—ANDRITZ HYDRO Corp. consortium announced award of an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for the addition of two synchronous condensers to the LCRA Transmission Services Corporation (LCRA TSC) project at the 345 kV Bakersfield substation in West Texas.

The project was identified and recommended by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which oversees the state’s power grid, to enhance grid stability in West Texas region experiencing fast-rising energy demand and significant growth in renewable generation.

Synchronous condensers play a vital role in managing reactive power and voltage levels, helping strengthen the grid and ensuring efficient flow of electricity. They are expected to help manage the flow of electricity and prevent power outages by increasing the short-circuit strength, which is crucial for providing consistent and reliable power to homes and businesses.

“We are committed to supporting grid reliability in the ERCOT region of Texas,” said Kristian Koellner, LCRA executive vice president and chief operating officer, Transmission. “These synchronous condensers will bolster the reliability of the West Texas system, enhance its resilience to unexpected events and address challenges that may arise in real-time operations.”

As the consortium leader, GE Vernova is expected to deliver full EPC services to integrate two 175 MVAr synchronous condenser units from ANDRITZ including the controls, SCADA and protection systems. Each unit will feature a GE Prolec step-up transformer, along with high-voltage circuit breakers and disconnectors provided by GE Vernova. The project is expected to be delivered by mid-2027.

“Texas is at the forefront of an energy transformation—driven by rapid industrial growth, surging demand from AI and data centers, and the accelerated integration of renewables. GE Vernova is proud to partner on this critical project, delivering advanced electrification technologies that not only strengthen system reliability and stability, but also supports resource adequacy,” said Olivier Ruiz, Grid Systems Integration Leader for North America at GE Vernova.

“At ANDRITZ, we are committed to delivering advanced synchronous condenser technology that enhances grid stability and reliability. We are pleased to collaborate with LCRA TSC and GE Vernova on this initiative, leveraging our expertise to enhance the long term resilience and stability of the power network as Texas navigates its evolving energy landscape,” said Daniel Carrier, CEO of ANDRITZ Hydropower North America.

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