Testing Now Possible Beyond 20 MW: Windtest Grevenbroich Expands FRT Testing Capabilities for Improved Grid Integration

Grevenbroich, Germany – With the introduction of a new medium-voltage FRT test container (MV-FRT), Windtest Grevenbroich has significantly expanded its technical capabilities for testing grid-relevant characteristics of generation units, including wind turbines, combustion engines, battery storage systems, and photovoltaic inverters.

The new 40-foot container enables standard-compliant testing under realistic grid fault conditions – such as undervoltages, overvoltages, vector shifts, and multi-dips – without the need for extensive modifications. According to Windtest, this means that the testing facility – one of the very few providers worldwide – can now flexibly and reliably test generation units of various power classes, including those exceeding 20?MW.

"With our unique MV-FRT container, we are using state-of-the-art technology that enables us to demonstrate grid stability properties at the highest level and to test different electrical generation units in accordance with the latest technical standards," explains Managing Director Monika Krämer. The fourth generation of the mobile testing system was developed in collaboration with long-standing partner EESYST.

Thanks to improvements such as doubled switching elements, increased impedances, and an optimized architecture, the new system ensures precise simulation of complex grid scenarios, according to the testing facility. Safety features such as emergency shutdown systems, video monitoring, temperature sensors, and thermal imaging cameras provide maximum operational security.

The tests are conducted in accordance with international standards such as FGW TR3 and IEC 61400-21-1, supporting manufacturers, grid operators, and project developers in integrating new technologies into the grid. Particularly relevant is the system’s capability for phase-specific switching – a key requirement for validating models in grid simulations.

With this technological upgrade, Windtest Grevenbroich continues to position itself as a leading independent measurement service provider in the energy transition sector – making a significant contribution to the secure integration of modern power generators into future grid structures.

Source: IWR Online, 20 May 2025