Elmhurst near Ararat is now home to Australia’s largest operating synchronous condenser.

The Ararat Synchronous Condenser will enable an additional 600 megawatts of renewable energy generation to connect to western Victoria’s power grid.

The large spinning machine supports system stability and allows the electricity network to host more energy by maintaining a balance between power generation and consumption, quickly responding to sudden changes in power demand to stabilise the grid.

Australian Energy Operations operates the condenser, with Victorian renewable company Beon Energy Solutions carrying out construction work.

Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said it was one of 12 State Government projects funded through a $480-million investment aimed at strengthening the state’s power grid so more renewable energy could flow to Victorian homes and businesses.

She said the projects combined would unlock 2.3 gigawatts of renewable energy – enough to power 16 per cent of Victoria’s annual electricity needs – while delivering economic benefits and new opportunities for regional communities.

“Only Labor will invest in the technology Victoria needs to lower bills and keep the lights on,” she said.

Australian Energy Operations chief executive Glen Thomson labelled the project forward-thinking.

“The Victorian government should be congratulated for its vision and foresight to invest in this type of technology to support system strength in the grid and underpin further renewable generation investment in this part of western Victoria,” he said.

The entire July 8, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!