GE Vernova’s LM6000VELOX packaged solution will reportedly become the first aeroderivative gas turbine application to operate on 100% renewable hydrogen.
The Whyalla hydrogen power plant in the Upper Spencer Gulf, South Australia, will utilise surplus renewable energy, generated by wind and solar farms, to produce green hydrogen that will be stored and used to power four LM6000VELOX units.
ATCO Australia made the order for the four units, and they’re expected to be commissioned by early 2026. H2 View understands that the power plant will deliver a combined capacity of up to 200MW to help meet electricity demand in the region.
An aeroderivative gas turbine is a type of gas turbine derived from aircraft jet engine technology, specifically tailored for stationary industrial, marine or power generation applications.
GE Vernova’s Gas Power Business CEO, Eric Gray, said the firm is proud to unveil its first 100% hydrogen-ready aeroderivative gas turbine solution to help customers maintain grid reliability, “which requires the deploying of renewable and conventional power technology in tandem.”
Gray added, “The South Australian Government, through our project partner ATCO Australia, selected GE Vernova as the preferred equipment supplier for its Hydrogen Jobs Plan, and we are honoured to work with ATCO Australia and BOC in this first-of-its-kind project, which is a major step in support of South Australia’s renewable energy future.”
John Ivulich, CEO and County Chair at ATCO Australia, said, “With more than 70% of the energy generated from renewable resources, South Australia is set to become a global leader in producing and utilising renewable hydrogen and we are delighted to be part of this project that can unlock decarbonisation opportunities.
“By deploying GE Vernova’s first-of-its-kind aeroderivative solution, able to operate on 100% hydrogen, we will support South Australia’s continued energy transition and decarbonisation journey, in alignment with the state’s goals outlined in the government’s Hydrogen Jobs Plan.”
The Whyalla power plant received environmental approval earlier this month after it secured development approvals in August for the Hydrogen Jobs Plan project.
Read more: South Australia’s 200MW Whyalla hydrogen power plant gains environmental approval
With four 100% hydrogen-ready turbines from GE Vernova secured, construction is set to commence on 250MW of electrolysers to produce hydrogen. The project will also include a storage pipeline capable of holding up to 100 tonnes of hydrogen.
Hydrogen gas turbines: Flexible and reliable clean power
Gas turbines currently account for approximately 20% of the world’s electricity generation and are known for their flexibility, fast ramp-up times and high efficiency. Recently, they have emerged as a key solution for countries transitioning away from coal.
Proponents of the technology believe gas turbines will still have a key role to play in a decarbonised energy system, but powered by clean fuels, such as hydrogen.
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