U.S.-based GE is working with Chinese authorities to help reduce emissions from the Taiyanggong Thermal Power Station in Beijing. GE Power Generation Services is upgrading and rebuilding two gas turbines at the Taiyanggong plant.
Under the terms of the agreement signed in December, GE is to deliver parts for the upgrades by the end of the year, with the work completed on both turbines by early 2017.
The project will result in combustion systems that are simpler and more flexible in terms of fuel used to generate electricity. In addition, the agreement calls for GE to provide maintenance through 2025, a first-of-its-kind service model that sets an example for Chinese utilities looking to reduce their operational costs and environmental impact of existing power plants.
The GE upgrades also can improve financial returns for operators while increasing overall operating efficiency and lower fuel costs. GE's maintenance oversight may enable plants to extend maintenance intervals, reducing downtime. As a result, plants should have increased operating hours that will boost revenue.