Statkraft’s project in Keith starts delivering a Greener Grid for Christmas

This project is part of Statkraft’s substantial over £1.3 billion investment in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure, facilitating the transition to clean energy. Statkraft’s Greener Grid Parks will make a significant contribution to the UK’s 2050 Net Zero target.

The rotating stabilisers at Keith utilise first of its kind technology. Traditionally, coal or gas-powered turbines are called upon to provide stability to the electricity system. The Greener Grid Parks mimic this effect; providing inertia to the system and maintaining the right frequency to ensure stability in the electricity system – all done without producing harmful carbon emissions. They complement wind and solar generation, working together to provide a fully renewable electricity network.

The commissioning of Keith is a huge step forward for the collective ambition to operate the electricity system with zero-carbon in 2025. The project will also start to immediately reduce consumer energy costs.

The project is situated in Moray, Scotland, close to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks’ Keith transmission substation. The project is a great demonstration of GB innovation, with the rotating stabiliser technology being manufactured in GE Power Conversion’s factory in Rugby with a key component provided by Sheffield Forgemasters. The project has focused on involving local suppliers throughout, with a Local Suppliers Register being created and supported by Moray and Aberdeen & Grampian Chambers of Commerce.

The Keith Construction Site Manager commented “The Local Supplier Register is extremely useful. It is my first port of call for any services we require. Approximately 75% of our supplier business to date has come from companies on that register.”

Local contractors have been commissioned for on and off-site services including accommodation and cleaning as well as significant contracts including steelwork and cladding from Simmers, and stone from Tarmac, based in Keith.

Guy Nicholson, Head of Grid Integration, Statkraft UK said “It’s a project to be incredibly proud of. This innovative solution will genuinely make the use of renewable energy easier and cheaper whilst also bringing benefits to the environment and the economy. From concept to construction and implementation, it has been a great example of British innovation and great teamwork. With targets for zero carbon system operation in 2025, and massive growth in electricity demand up to Net Zero in 2050, this kind of co-operation is exemplary and necessary.”

Andy Cooper, UK Managing Director GE Power Conversion said “GE are very proud to be involved in the Keith Greener Grid Park project, working in partnership with Statkraft and our supply chain to support a lower carbon path to meet the world’s energy needs.”