New transmission project to boost reliability in West Texas

FEB. 16, 2024

Two new synchronous condensers will be installed at an LCRA TSC substation in Pecos County to help improve electric reliability in the ERCOT system.

What is a synchronous condenser? In simple terms, it’s a rotating machine that spins freely and, when installed in a transmission system, it provides reactive power and improves system inertia. During a disturbance such as a generator tripping offline elsewhere in the system, the synchronous condensers help stabilize grid voltages by either producing or absorbing reactive power, improving overall system reliability.

“This project is very exciting for us because it’s the first of its kind for LCRA TSC,” said Brad Melnar, engineering director in Transmission Design and Protection. “The project demonstrates Transmission Services’ ability to adapt to the changing needs of ERCOT.”

The big picture: In a recent study, ERCOT recommended synchronous condensers for six locations in West Texas, including at a large 345-KV substation owned and operated by LCRA TSC. The substation will be expanded to accommodate the new equipment.

Why it matters: The continued integration of resources that do not contribute to system inertia – such as wind and solar generation in West Texas, along with battery development – is driving the need for the project.