Revolutionizing Power Generation: Advancements in Gas Turbines and Hydrogen Technology
Key Ideas
  • NETL's interactive map showcases the growth in installations of higher-efficiency gas turbines, reducing emissions while increasing power output.
  • The Advanced Turbine Program focuses on developing new, near-zero-emissions technologies for both new builds and existing fleet adaptations.
  • Hydrogen turbines, with the potential to provide carbon-free electricity, are on the path to cost parity with combined cycle power plants through the Hydrogen Shot initiative.
  • The map not only tracks CO2 emissions but also displays hydrogen infrastructure, aiding the industry in evaluating future investments.
The National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) recently unveiled an interactive map detailing data on gas turbines installed in the United States from 2010 to 2023. The map highlights trends in turbine installations and annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, showcasing the impact of revolutionary, near-zero-emissions advanced turbine technology developed by NETL. According to John Crane, NETL's technology manager for Advanced Turbines, the map demonstrates significant growth in the adoption of newer, higher-efficiency technologies that offer increased power generation while reducing emissions. The map allows users to visualize the CO2 emissions of select gas turbines based on color and size, along with monthly emissions for specific sites. Moreover, it provides insights into power output and turbine technology for each location. Original equipment manufacturers classify turbines based on various factors, with newer technologies like F- and H-class turbines capable of blending hydrogen with natural gas, offering a path to carbon-free power generation. While hydrogen has the potential to generate power without CO2 emissions, its production cost needs to decrease for competitiveness. The U.S. Department of Energy's Hydrogen Shot initiative aims to reduce hydrogen production costs to one dollar per kilogram. Crane notes that hydrogen turbines are expected to reach cost parity with combined cycle power plants with carbon capture, driving the industry towards dispatchable carbon-free electricity. The map also showcases CO2 and hydrogen infrastructure, serving as a valuable tool for industry assessments. NETL, as a Department of Energy national laboratory, is committed to advancing carbon management and sustainable energy technologies for a cleaner future.
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