Gas Turbine Plants: Transitioning to Continuous Services for Energy Reliability
Key Ideas
  • Gas turbine plants could provide continuous transmission services as renewables grow, addressing system inertia and frequency response.
  • Proposed approach involves running gas turbine plants non-stop to offer services to transmission systems, potentially revolutionizing the market.
  • Technological advancements allow for running gas turbines continuously, supporting energy systems with flexibility and reliability, including potential use of hydrogen.
  • Calls for better EU policies for reliable electricity supply, emphasizing the need for a systems approach and agreement on transmission operating codes.
At the EUTurbines conference in Brussels, the discussion revolved around the potential of gas turbine plants to provide continuous transmission services in the evolving energy landscape. Thomas Thiemann from Siemens Energy suggested operating gas turbine plants round-the-clock to offer services beyond peak demand requirements or renewables shortages. The idea, while speculative, could introduce a new market dynamic where utilities bid their capacity as services to transmission system operators. This shift could ensure reliable electricity supply as renewable energy sources increase. The industry highlighted the importance of turbine technology in complementing renewables by providing flexibility and generation capacity even during periods of low renewable energy generation. The use of hydrogen as a fuel in gas turbines was also emphasized as a promising avenue. Concerns were raised about energy storage capacity and the need for better EU policies to ensure energy reliability. Various speakers stressed the importance of a systems approach and harmonized regulations across EU countries to navigate the energy transition effectively. Overall, the sentiment towards gas turbines and their potential role in ensuring energy reliability was positive, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and market innovation.
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