GE Vernova has completed a modernisation project at Sasol’s Secunda power plant in Mpumalanga, South Africa
The scope of work involved replacing the existing pre-combustor system with a new DLN1+ combustor, supplemented by the Fuel Gas Module (FGM) skid, to enhance the operational efficiency of the two installed 9E gas turbines and reduce carbon emissions.
In a statement, GE Vernova highlighted that the project serves as a model for modernising power plants across Africa by boosting operational efficiency and reducing NOx emissions.
The project is also expected to yield water consumption savings equivalent to about 64 Olympic-sized swimming pools per turbine annually.
“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 further noted that innovation and technologies will enable more efficient energy production with reduced emissions, without the need for 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,” remarked Anis.
Other benefits of the Secunda upgrade include extended maintenance intervals, which reduce downtime and operational costs, along with improved reliability of the power supply delivered to the national grid.
The upgrade also improved efficiency compared to the previous combustor, resulting in approximately 10,000 metric tons less CO2 emissions per gas turbine, supporting Sasol’s environmental goals, GE Vernova reported.
For over a century, GE has contributed to the development of Africa’s energy infrastructure, supporting power generation, transmission and distribution, energy sector software applications, and community outreach.
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GE Vernova modernises Secunda power plant
Sasol's Secunda power plant in South Africa. (Image source: Sasol)
