Flywheel Generator Convertors (FGC) Repurposing Project

The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) is entering a multi-year decommissioning programme of the Joint European Torus (JET) experimental fusion machine at the end of 2023 under the JET Decommissioning and Repurposing Programme. One of the key existing systems that have historically provided additional power to the Fusion machine will no longer be required for their primary purpose and an opportunity exists to repurpose the equipment for alternative use. A preliminary feasibility study has identified that the Flywheel Generator Convertors (FGCs) could be repurposed to provide inertia as part of the National Grid Stability Services (ESO).

The two Flywheel Generator Convertors (FGCs) can each supply 2600 MJ to their respective magnet load coils with a peak power of 410 MVA. Each flywheel generator is currently independently operated and used as energy storage for Joint European Torus (JET) pulses. They are driven by 8 MW pony motors with the flywheel output diode rectified for up to 400 MW DC output. A concept has been developed to connect the flywheel to the 400 kV transmission network via Culham’s existing connection.

Stability services are vital for the safe and secure operation of the electricity network, it is expected that the flywheels could provide more than 5 GW.s of inertia.

This Prior Information Notice (PIN) is to establish third party interest in this opportunity, said parties recognising the need for investment to upgrade and then operate the JET flywheels for grid load balancing.

To enable interested parties to understand more about this opportunity please confirm if you would like to attend a site visit at the UKAEA Culham facility via the attached registration questionnaire.

This visit will allow interested parties to view the facility which houses the flywheel generators and meet technical and commercial representatives from UKAEA.

Please refer to attached document for further information and registration for the site visit.