Hybrid turbine governor eHPG exceeds expectations
May 8, 2025After its launch, VEO’s hybrid turbine regulator eHPG has undergone extensive field testing in diverse conditions. The results have exceeded even the most optimistic forecasts. The eHPG, which integrates hydropower with energy-storing technology, reduces mechanical movement on the turbine by up to 90%, significantly extending the lifespan of hydropower equipment while improving overall performance.
The eHPG was designed to address the challenge of mechanical stress in hydropower turbines caused by continuous regulation adjustments. It integrates dynamic energy storage and efficiently controls both the storage and the turbine in response to changes in network frequency.
Dramatically reduced mechanical movements
Monitoring data confirms that hybrid control significantly reduces movement caused by turbine regulation, especially in change of regulation direction.
The graphs provide evidence that identical turbines operated with the same settings during the same time interval – one without eHPG and one with eHPG regulation. The turbine with eHPG regulation exhibits significantly reduced movements.
The greatest stress on the turbine comes from rapid changes in regulation direction. With eHPG control, these adjustments are reduced by up to 90%, significantly lowering mechanical strain, thereby prolonging the lifespan of the turbine and its regulating devices.
Mechanical movement reduced by up to 90%
Compliance with latest FCR regulations
The eHPG not only reduces mechanical movements, and thus maintenance costs, but also allows for revenue increases by enabling more hydropower plants to participate in the frequency reserve market. By transferring high-speed load variations from the turbine to the energy storage, the eHPG allow plants to meet the key requirement for FCR reserves.
Under the new regulations, stricter requirements for performance stability and precise response must be met to participate in the reserve markets.
The eHPG complies with the most recent FCR regulations:
FCR-N tests according to the Technical requirements for frequency containment reserve provision in the Nordic synchronous area
Enhancing grid stability
The growth of weather-dependent renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, has increased frequency fluctuations in the electricity grid. This is why hydropower plants play a crucial role in compensating for these variations.
The inclusion of a small-scale energy storage enables power plants to respond more rapidly to changes in electricity demand and production – capabilities which are critical for maintaining grid balance during volatile conditions.
The eHPG is suitable for plants of varying capacities, ensuring its relevance for plants of all sizes. Small-scale hydropower plants, which have historically been overlooked, can now actively contribute to grid stability. By equipping these plants with hybrid capabilities, eHPG maximises their potential and helps decentralise energy resources.
Rethinking the current
The eHPG is an example of VEO’s aim to provide innovations that bring measurable value to customers while contributing to the energy transition. By combining hydropower and energy storage technology, the eHPG offers a pathway to a more resilient and efficient energy grid. Hydropower remains a cornerstone of energy systems, and with solutions like the eHPG, it is well-positioned to adapt to new demands while continuing to deliver reliable, sustainable power.
VEO eHPG at a glance
What: the hybrid turbine governor eHPG is a pioneering solution that genuinely integrates energy storage with the frequency reserve regulation of a hydropower turbine.
It ensures precise control, keeping the grid stable and the distribution undisturbed.
eHPG main benefits
Cost-decreasing factors:
Reduced mechanical movements reduce wear
Revenue-increasing factors:
Compliance with latest regulations
Socioeconomic impact:
Enhanced grid stability
Compensating for fluctuating energy sources
Rapid responses to grid disturbances
Scalable to power plants of all sizes
