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Variable speed technology implementation at the Nuevo Castillo hydroelectric plant (Granada).
Hydroelectric plants continue to evolve, embracing technological innovations that adapt their operations to changing environmental conditions. To address the challenge of maintaining efficiency during periods of low water flow, Endesa has implemented a pioneering system that allows turbine speed to be adjusted—acting as a 'virtual gearbox'—to ensure the continued production of emission-free energy even when river resources are scarce.
This innovative 'variable speed' system required a €3.7 million investment, with €1.3 million funded by the Institute for the Diversification and Saving of Energy (IDAE) under the EU’s Next Generation EU Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan.
The new 'variable speed' system utilises a frequency converter positioned between the generator and the transformer, functioning similarly to a bicycle's gears. These 'gears' decouple the machine’s rotation speed from the grid frequency, optimising operations based on real-time water availability.
By adapting the machine's revolutions to the water flow, the turbine can maintain optimal conditions at all times, allowing the hydroelectric unit to operate even below the standard technical minimum flow. This reduces the frequency of starts and stops, significantly boosting both efficiency and total electricity generation.
This system has been implemented in three Andalusian hydroelectric plants: the Racioneros plant in the municipality of Begíjar in Jaén, Nuevo Castillo in the Sierra de Güejar in Granada, and Nacimiento in Castril (Granada). These are the first facilities in Andalusia to feature variable speed capabilities.
Following the success of this smart speed implementation, Endesa is now exploring the rollout of this system across its other hydroelectric assets in Spain.
About Endesa
Endesa is the leading electricity company in Spain and the second largest in Portugal. It is also the second largest gas operator in the Spanish market. Endesa operates an integrated business model spanning electricity generation, distribution, and supply. Furthermore, the company offers value-added services focused on the electrification of energy use for households, businesses, and public administrations. Endesa is committed to the United Nations’ SDGs and corporate social responsibility. In the latter area, it also operates through the Endesa Foundation. Our team comprises around 9,000 employees. Endesa is part of Enel.