As reported, the upgraded turbine is designed to help power plant operators reduce total cost of ownership and environmental impact by allowing them to use less fuel to generate power.
GE Energy said that a typical power plant operating two new 7FA gas turbines with a single steam turbine in combined cycle configuration would achieve a fuel cost savings of approximately $2.1m per year at a natural gas price of $6 per MMBtu when compared to a similar plant with an earlier version of the 7FA for equivalent net plant output.
This updated plant would also avoid the emission of approximately 19,000 metric tons of CO2 per year compared to the earlier version.
Steve Bolze, president of power & water business at GE Energy, said: “Investing in the needs of tomorrow with R&D and technology is at the foundation of GE and helps us to maintain a competitive advantage in the power generation arena.
“Today’s announcement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to GE’s leadership in advanced gas turbine technology that helps deliver power more efficiently and flexibly to our customers without compromising their high standards for operational excellence.”
Rick Stanley, vice president of engineering at GE Energy, said: “Since its introduction, our F technology has consistently set industry standards for reliability and efficiency. The 7FA upgrade underscores our commitment to continue refining the technology to meet the evolving needs of today’s customers.”
Some of the first new 7FA turbines are planned for the proposed Oakley Generating Station in Oakley, California. The plant, which is projected to generate 586MW of power, is being developed by Radback Energy and is expected to be transferred to Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) after it enters commercial operation.
