The first phase of the Electricity System Operator’s (ESO) project to manage voltage has begun, with three new reactors now working to help keep electricity levels stable.
These reactors were installed by National Grid Electricity Transmission at substations in different locations and will take over the role previously played by old power stations that have recently closed.
As part of its goal to create a zero carbon electricity network by 2025, the ESO is looking for new ways to maintain reliable electricity supply.
With the closure of older coal and gas power stations, the ESO needs to find alternatives to keep the electricity system stable.
Two of the reactors started operating in May 2024 and have been providing continuous service since then.
This has allowed the ESO to avoid using more expensive and polluting options, like fossil-fuel power stations, to keep voltage levels up.
The third reactor has recently joined the system, which will help reduce costs for consumers even more.
A fourth reactor from the Dogger Bank C wind farm will be added in 2026 to help maintain stable electricity supply in the area and replace the services provided by current power stations.
Julian Leslie, Director of Strategic Energy Planning and Chief Engineer said: “Delivering new services that can produce the reactive power tools such as voltage management that we use on a daily basis to keep the electricity network stable and secure is paramount to delivering our 2025 ambition and to deliver net zero.”
Jon Davies, Director of Network Operations and Intelligence at National Grid Electricity Transmission, said: “Making sure electricity supplies are stable and reliable is paramount as Britain’s energy system decarbonises.”
