GE Vernova’s gas power business hosted a sub-Saharan Africa Aeroderivative Users Conference in Tanzania recently with the theme, “Building capacity and supporting energy security with aero-derivative gas turbines.” The event brought together customers and senior leaders from utilities, IPPs, EPCs, and financial institutions across sub-Saharan Africa. The forum discussed the global energy industry challenge of building a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy future, what it means for Sub-Saharan Africa, and how aero-derivative gas turbines can support addressing this challenge.

Aero-derivative gas turbines offer a variety of fuel options that provide the capability to harness fuels from different sources and to switch between fuels when economically preferred without shutting down. They also yield better efficiencies through rapid response to grid frequency fluctuations and combined cycle capability which results in better use of fuel. Due to their compact and modular nature, aero-derivative gas turbines can be transported, installed, and commissioned very quickly. The TM2500 generator set is trailer mounted and can be installed faster than traditional power plants, making it ideal for short- and long-term energy planning, stabilising the grid, or powering remote locations.

GE’s TM2500 gas turbines are strategically placed throughout the region, in countries such as Nigeria, Tanzania, Angola, and Ghana, to provide emergency power because of their enhanced mobility, easy installation, and critical grid backup. They also have lower emissions than diesel generators when operating on gas, and the availability of an SCR solution will enable to further reduce NOx and CO emissions by 90%.

Beyond power generation, the conference also highlighted best practices in operating power plants, investments in grid transmission and distribution systems, the adoption of digital solutions, as well as access to financing. The attendees also visited Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO)‘s Kinyerezi and the Songas’ Ubungo power plants, to experience first-hand how aero-derivative gas turbines are supporting Tanzania’s flexible and efficient power generation needs while reducing carbon emissions. Songas has installed four LM6000 aero-derivative gas turbines at the Ubungo Power Plant in Dar es Salaam, while TANESCO has installed nine LM6000 and four TM2500 aero-derivative gas turbines at their power plants in Kinyerezi and Ubungo III.