Modernization of reactive power compensator with Aurora Tornio supports energy efficiency in steel plant in Finland
Merus Power agreed with Aurora Tornio to modernize its 70 MVar static reactive power compensator. The compensator will be delivered to the Outokumpu steel plant in Tornio and installations will commence in the second half of 2023. Industry electricity grid partner, Aurora Tornio, aims to reduce its customers’ carbon footprint by improving power quality and energy efficiency.
The new modernized reactive power compensator will be installed in the medium voltage network of the cold rolling mill to improve power quality. The purpose of the compensator is to reduce the disturbances and reactive power caused by the cold rolling mill. This improves the plant’s energy efficiency and reduces its need for maintenance.
The Tornio steel plant is one of the world’s largest integrated steel plants, where the entire refining chain is carried out on the same plant site. The cold rolling mill has several different production lines with various power requirements. The steel industry is an energy-intensive business. By improving power quality and investing in energy efficiency, the amount of electrical energy required to manufacture products can be reduced. Outokumpu works with steel, which is one of the most recycled materials in the world and can be recycled almost indefinitely without compromising its features.
“We help our customers make power grid solutions that create a strong foundation for sustainable business. We make sure that our customers have access to a network that meets their needs, in which usability is crucial. We ensure that networks promote continuously evolving production, where electrification plays a key role. We help our customers move towards carbon-neutral production,” says Pentti Alatalo from Aurora Tornio.
“Merus Power is a knowledgeable and professional partner, and we have many years of experience in the electricity compensation needs of the metal industry. Our devices are reliable and withstand the demanding conditions of the metal industry. Our systems are optimized to compensate for industry-specific power quality challenges. We are very pleased to be able to boost energy efficiency and support sustainable development in the domestic steel industry together with our partners.” says Kari Tuomala, CEO of Merus Power.