GE Vernova—ANDRITZ HYDRO Consortium to Boost Texas Grid Reliability with New Synchronous Condensers at Bakersfield Substation in West Texas

The ANDRITZ Synchronous Condenser – for a secure and stable grid

(IN BRIEF) The GE Vernova—ANDRITZ HYDRO Corp. consortium has been awarded an EPC contract for the installation of two synchronous condensers at the LCRA TSC project in West Texas. The project, recommended by ERCOT, aims to improve grid stability in a region facing growing energy demands and increased renewable generation. Synchronous condensers will help manage reactive power and voltage levels, ensuring reliable electricity flow and reducing the risk of power outages. The project, slated for completion by mid-2027, will enhance the resilience of the West Texas grid and contribute to the region’s ongoing energy transformation.

(PRESS RELEASE) GRAZ, 27-May-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The GE Vernova—ANDRITZ HYDRO Corp. consortium has secured 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 located in West Texas. This initiative aims to enhance the grid stability in the West Texas region, which has been experiencing rapid energy demand growth and increased renewable generation, as recommended by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).

Synchronous condensers are crucial for managing reactive power and voltage levels, which helps reinforce the power grid and ensures a steady flow of electricity. These units will assist in preventing power outages by increasing the short-circuit strength, which is vital for maintaining reliable energy delivery to homes and businesses.

“We are committed to enhancing grid reliability in the ERCOT region,” stated Kristian Koellner, LCRA’s executive vice president and COO of Transmission. “The integration of these synchronous condensers will improve the reliability of the West Texas grid, strengthen its resilience to unforeseen events, and address operational challenges.”

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

“Ongoing energy transformation in Texas, driven by industrial growth, AI demand, and renewable energy integration, requires advanced solutions,” said Olivier Ruiz, Grid Systems Integration Leader for North America at GE Vernova. “We are proud to partner on this essential project, providing advanced technologies to ensure a reliable, stable grid that supports energy resources.”

Daniel Carrier, CEO of ANDRITZ Hydropower North America, added, “At ANDRITZ, we are dedicated to providing innovative synchronous condenser technologies that improve grid stability and reliability. Our collaboration with LCRA TSC and GE Vernova will help strengthen Texas’ power network and ensure its long-term resilience as the state continues its energy evolution.”

GE VERNOVA
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world’s challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with approximately 75,000 employees across 100+ countries around the world. Supported by the Company’s purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova technology helps deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova and LinkedIn.

ANDRITZ GROUP
International technology group ANDRITZ provides advanced plants, equipment, services, and digital solutions for a wide range of industries, including pulp and paper, metals, hydropower, environmental, and others. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in Austria, the publicly listed group employs about 30,000 people at 280 locations in over 80 countries.

As a global leader in technology and innovation, ANDRITZ is committed to fostering progress that benefits customers, partners, employees, society, and the environment. The company’s growth is driven by sustainable solutions enabling the green transition, advanced digitalization for highest industrial performance, and comprehensive services that maximize the value of customers’ plants over their entire life cycle. ANDRITZ. FOR GROWTH THAT MATTERS.

ANDRITZ HYDROPOWER
ANDRITZ Hydropower is one of the world’s leading suppliers of electromechanical equipment and services for hydropower stations in the dynamically growing global renewable energy market. Based on 185 years of experience and a global installed capacity of 489 gigawatts, it offers innovative solutions for new and existing hydropower stations, from small hydropower to large-scale plants. State-of-the-art digital solutions, comprehensive services for the operation and maintenance of entire hydropower plants, and turbo generators for the thermal industry complete the portfolio.

Media Contact:

Susan Trast
HEAD OF CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
susan.trast@andritz.com

ANDRITZ HYDRO
Alexander Schwab
alexander.schwab@andritz.com

SOURCE: ANDRITZ