Update on fast start Combine Cycle Gas Turbines (base load suitable for wind backup)

Latest from GE

FlexEfficiency* 50 Combined Cycle Power Plant

"GE's new FlexEfficiency* 50 Combined Cycle Power Plant is an innovative total plant design that defines a new standard for high efficiency and operational flexibility. The FlexEfficiency 50 uses an integrated approach to reduce fuel costs, create additional revenue sources, improve dispatch capability and reduce carbon emissions compared to prior technologies. With new gas turbine, steam turbine, and generator components—along with digital control capabilities, power island integration, and a turnkey plant design—the new 510 MW block-size plant features an expected baseload efficiency of more than 61 percent."

http://www.ge-energy.com/products_and_services/products/gas_turbines_heavy_duty/flexefficiency_50_combined_cycle_power_plant.jsp




60% efficiency down to 87 percent load
Greater than 50 MW/minute while maintaining emissions guarantees
40 percent turndown within emissions guarantees
One button push start in under 30 minutes
Total Plant Design

• High start reliability with simplified digital controls
• Plant-level flexibility and maintainability
• Two-year construction schedule

Leading Baseload Efficiency

• More than 61 percent baseload efficiency
• Integrated Solar Combined Cycle (ISCC) greater than 70 percent baseload efficiency

Low Life-Cycle Costs

• Designed for twice the starts and hours capability compared to current GE technologies

original posting: http://climateandstuff.blogspot.co.uk/2011/05/efficiency-of-power-plant-operating.html