China achieves a world first, updating stabilisers for renewable energy grids

AdvertisementScienceChinaScienceChina achieves a world first, updating stabilisers for renewable energy gridsResearchers said their 35kV direct-connection synchronous condenser successfully passed testing, in repurposing of old technology 2-MIN READ2-MIN ListenVictoria BelaPublished: 12:00pm, 21 Apr 2026China has developed a world-first high-voltage synchronous condenser, reviving a century-old grid stabiliser technology to support the country’s rapid transition to renewable energy, according to a state media report.The state-run China Electric Power News said on April 10 that a 35-kilovolt direct-connection rotating machine developed by Dongfang Electric Machinery had successfully passed testing earlier that day. The successful test made Dongfang’s synchronous condenser the first in the world to reach such a high voltage, eliminating the need for intermediate step-up transformers to achieve direct grid connection, the report said. AdvertisementThe achievement comes at a time when China is undergoing an unprecedented renewable energy transition, spurred by its dual goals of reaching peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.This has been driven by the rapid installation of wind and solar power, particularly in the country’s northern and western regions, with their abundant natural energy resources. 02:23 China’s coal miners worry about a greener future China’s coal miners worry about a greener futureSynchronous condensers were first used in the 1920s to handle the unused reactive power that oscillates between source and load in hydroelectricity generation, according to energy equipment manufacturer GE Vernova. AdvertisementAdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.00x