Australia’s largest synchronous condenser has started operating in Elmhurst, marking a milestone in Victoria’s transition to a cleaner energy grid.
The Ararat Synchronous Condenser, a massive spinning machine designed to maintain grid stability, will allow an additional 600 megawatts of renewable energy generation to connect to the electricity network.
Positioned in the state’s west, the project is tipped to deliver more reliable power across regional Victoria by balancing supply and demand in real time.
Delivered and operated by Australian Energy Operations, with local firm Beon Energy Solutions spearheading construction, the project acts as a giant shock absorber for the network. It quickly responds to sudden fluctuations in power demand, creating the system strength necessary to host a higher volume of wind and solar power.
The Elmhurst facility is the first of 12 critical grid-strengthening projects funded under the Victorian government’s AU$480 million infrastructure package.
Combined, these upgrades are expected to unlock 2.3 gigawatts of clean energy, enough to cover roughly 16 per cent of Victoria’s annual electricity needs.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said the investment was will lower bills for residents.
VicGrid CEO Alistair Parker highlighted the local upside, noting the project shows how industry partnerships can deliver necessary transition infrastructure “while ensuring local communities share in the long-term social and economic benefits.”
Australian Energy Operations Chief Executive Glen Thomson praised the state’s proactive approach, congratulating the government on its “vision and foresight to invest in this type of technology to support system strength”.