GE Vernova’s new STATCOM solution to Strengthen Grids and Support Renewable Energy Expansion
GE Vernova Inc. has announced the launch of its latest innovation, FACTSFLEX GFMe, an advanced Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) solution aimed at strengthening power grids and facilitating the increased use of renewable energy sources.
www.gevernova.com
- GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions has launched a new product within its renamed FACTSFLEX STATCOM portfolio: FACTSFLEX GFMe.
- FACTSFLEX GFMe combines STATCOM technology with supercapacitor energy storage and improves grid reliability and stability in voltage- and frequency disturbances by providing virtual inertia and grid forming controls especially in areas with weaker infrastructure or high renewable energy.
- Available globally, FACTSFLEX GFMe aims to support the global transition to cleaner energy with stable and efficient grid operations.
FACTSFLEX GFMe combines GE Vernova’s STATCOM technology with advanced supercapacitors to stabilize the grid more effectively by enabling active power via energy storage. This combination allows rapid response to grid disturbances on the grid, which is especially important in areas with weaker infrastructure or high levels of renewable energy. By improving grid stability, FACTSFLEX GFMe supports the reliable operation of power systems and helps drive the global shift toward cleaner energy. The solution is now available globally.
“Our grid is undergoing its most significant transformation in over a century, driven by the rise of renewable energy sources like solar and wind,” said Johan Bindele, Leader of Grid Systems Integration business at GE Vernova. “This transformation brings new challenges, particularly the intermittent nature of renewables, which can lead to voltage fluctuations and grid instability. With FACTSFLEX GFMe, we are introducing a solution that leverages supercapacitor technology alongside our STATCOM systems to re-create the inertia which is being lost through the retirement of traditional thermal power generation, ensuring stable and reliable grid operations as we transition to a cleaner energy future.”
How FACTFLEX GFMe works?
Beyond its reactive power compensation capabilities, FACTSFLEX GFMe employs supercapacitor-based energy storage to emulate inertia by injecting or absorbing active power. This allows grid operators more advanced options to automatically and instantly support the stability of the grid. The system is based on a double star configuration, enabling high voltage energy storage integration. This modular and scalable solution is adaptable to meet the varied needs of different projects.
FACTSFLEX GFMe offers superior voltage and active power performance compared to battery-based options. Active power is scalable, with a typical rating of 150 MW for several seconds. Reactive power capabilities can be tailored to customer requirements, with continuous ratings of typically around 300 Mvar.
In addition to FACTSFLEX GFMe, GE Vernova’s STATCOM portfolio, recently rebranded FACTSFLEX STATCOM, also includes
FACTSFLEX Classic, GE Vernova’s original STATCOM solution with an extensive and proven install base
and FACTSFLEX GFM, a grid-forming STATCOM that provides instantaneous natural reactive power injection for grid disturbances for advanced grid stability.
www.gevernova.com
