All articles by James Varley
James Varley
Understanding role of gas turbines in renewable energy future
Meeting the growing demand for energy while paving the way for a climate-friendly future using sustainable, reliable, and affordable technology is one of our most urgent challenges. Siemens Energy is actively engaged in this endeavour, having already achieved major successes in firing sustainable fuels in gas turbines, such as hydrogen, hydrogen derivatives, and biofuels. A new white paper* emphasises the company’s commitment to decarbonising energy systems – including gas turbines – as a key objective. Some of the key findings are presented here. By Erik Zindel, Alastair Clegg, et al
Analysing role of small modular reactors in achieving net-zero
SMRs remain the most economically viable, and often the only practical, option for replacing coal. If pursuing net-zero is a genuine goal, the world requires an initiative akin to the Marshall Plan to assist the most carbon-intensive regions in the transition.
Role of THC-based high-resolution thermal mapping in gas turbine development
During the 2024 ASME Turbo Expo conference and exhibition held recently in London, very impressive high-resolution thermal mapping results were presented based on thermal history coating (THC) technology. This “novel and unique” temperature measurement concept has the potential to revolutionise future gas turbine design. By Jörg Feist Sensor Coating Systems Ltd
Enhancing nuclear governance with blockchain technology for regulatory compliance
The layered system of governance for nuclear materials generates huge volumes of data across multiple stakeholders in multiple jurisdictions. Now, blockchain technology may help to address a major data challenge faced by the nuclear industry.
Doosan seeks to expand gas turbine business in Korea with LTSA from KOSPO
The recent award of a long-term service agreement for an H class gas turbine, plus several orders for H class combined cycle plants, are seen by Doosan as further key steps towards realising its aspiration to become a player in advanced gas turbine technology
Role of steam generators in Diablo Canyon power plant’s extended future
Diablo Canyon has won a reprieve from closure and the potential to operate until the mid 2040s. Now its life extension application is under initial assessment by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
How integrated system plan can boost electricity supply in Australia
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has released its Integrated System Plan, a “25-year roadmap to transition the National Electricity Market (NEM) to net zero by 2050”
Insights into ACES Delta project from Mitsubishi Power’s point of view
A joint venture between Mitsubishi Power Americas and Chevron (via its acquisition from Haddington Ventures of Magnum Development in September 2023), the ACES Delta project is developing a large hydrogen hub to produce, store, and deliver green hydrogen to the western United States, including to a nearby combined cycle power plant being developed by Intermountain Power Agency to replace coal generation at its Intermountain Power Plant (IPP)
Key takeaways from journey of SunZia wind and transmission project
Following the groundbreaking closure of a record-setting $11bn in financing late last year, full construction is underway on Pattern Energy’s SunZia Wind and SunZia Transmission, which is anticipated to be completed in 2026.
How advanced surface preparation solutions protect wind towers from corrosion
Corrosion poses a major threat to wind towers, but advanced surface preparation techniques may safeguard the structural integrity to extend their operational life, enhancing the durability and efficiency of these structures