Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, a global investment manager focused on energy transition infrastructure, has made its first Irish investment with the acquisition of the Wexford Synchronous Condenser Project. This marks a strategic step for Quinbrook into the Irish market, reinforcing its commitment to grid stability and renewable integration.
The Wexford facility, originally developed by Green Frog Power, is a proposed 963 MVA.s. synchronous condenser located in Co. Wexford. It secured a long-term revenue contract under Ireland’s Low Carbon Inertia Services (LCIS) tender in June 2024.
Configured to provide essential grid stability services including inertia, reactive power, and short-circuit level the Wexford project will play a critical role in maintaining the resilience of Ireland’s electricity network as the country transitions to clean energy.
“Wexford represents a key milestone for us,” said Keith Gains, Managing Director and UK Regional Leader at Quinbrook. “It is not only our first Irish investment but also a continuation of our commitment to developing infrastructure that strengthens grid reliability and enables Ireland’s energy transition goals.”
Ireland aims to source 80% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. However, integrating high levels of wind and solar energy requires technologies like synchronous condensers to maintain grid security and avoid blackouts.
Quinbrook already leads in grid stability infrastructure across the UK, where it owns the largest private portfolio of synchronous condensers. The firm has committed over £430 million to these assets, with three projects operational and four under construction.
Synchronous condensers, unlike renewable generators, provide system inertia by mimicking the stabilising effects of traditional thermal plants without emissions. As wind and solar lack natural inertia, these condensers enable more clean energy use while keeping the grid secure.
Welsh Power, Quinbrook’s long-standing delivery partner, will oversee procurement and construction. Welsh Power previously delivered Quinbrook’s operational condenser projects in the UK and brings proven experience in complex grid infrastructure.
Construction will be fully funded by Quinbrook, with the Wexford plant expected to be operational by 2027. The investment demonstrates Quinbrook’s long-term commitment to building the foundational infrastructure that supports a decarbonised, resilient energy system.
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News Source: Businesswire.com
