GE Vernova has completed a modernisation project at Sasol’s Secunda power plant in Mpumalanga, South Africa
The scope of work included the replacement of the existing pre-combustor system with a new DLN1+ combustor supplemented by the Fuel Gas Module (FGM) skid to increase the operational efficiency of the two installed 9E gas turbines and reduce carbon emissions.
In a statement, GE Vernova said the project serves as a model for modernising power plants across Africa and increases operational efficiency, while reducing NOx emissions.
The project is also expected to lead to water consumption savings equivalent to about 64 Olympic pools per turbine annually, it noted.
“This project exemplifies our purpose to electrify the world," said Joseph Anis, president and CEO of GE Vernova's Gas Power business in Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
The statement added that innovation and technologies willenable more efficient energy production with reduced emissions, without requiring entirely new infrastructure.
“Building on our advanced combustion technologies, we are helping Sasol address South Africa’s energy needs more efficiently. Together, we are demonstrating how advanced technologies can deliver tangible benefits for both businesses and communities,” said Anis.
Other improvements from the Secunda upgrade include an extension of maintenance intervals, reducing downtime and operational costs, as well as enhanced reliability of the power supply delivered to the national grid.
There was also an efficiency improvement compared to the previous combustor, translating to approximately 10,000 metric tons less CO2 emitted per gas turbine, supporting Sasol’s environmental objectives, GE Vernova reported.
GE has contributed to the development of Africa’s energy infrastructure for over a century, supporting power generation, transmission and distribution, as well as energy sector software applications and community outreach.
Read more:
GE Vernova supports energy exchange in WAPP
Sasol secures 260MW for Secunda site
Turbines commissioned at Nigeria's second largest hydropower plant
GE Vernova modernises Secunda power plant
Sasol's Secunda power plant in South Africa. (Image source: Sasol)
