Renewable Energy Technology Assessments - Kauai Island Utility ...

Kaua’i Island Utility Cooperative
Renewable Energy Technology Assessments 3.0 Renewable Energy Technology Options
Applications
Simple cycle combustion turbines are the power generation technology of choice
for peaking service in the current domestic power industry. Simple cycle technology
provides many of the same positive attributes as reciprocating engines, including rapid
startup and modularity for ease of maintenance. In addition, combustion turbines have
several advantages over reciprocating engines, including lower emissions and lower
capital cost.
Fuel Flexibility
Like the reciprocating engine, simple cycle turbines are a conventional
technology that can be adapted to burn renewable fuels. Simple cycle turbines can burn
natural gas, diesel, propane, biogas and some bioderivative fuels such as biodiesel,
ethanol and bio-oil. It should be noted, however, that manufacturers of combustion
turbines do not necessarily encourage such fuel flexibility, and burning of alternative
fuels may void warranty coverage.
Performance and Cost Characteristics
Generic performance and cost estimates for small simple cycle combustion
turbines are listed in Table 3-36. For reference, the price of fuel is assumed to be
$12/MBtu, which is equivalent to diesel at $1.66/gallon.
Table 3-36. Simple Cycle Combustion Turbine Technology Characteristics.
Commercial Status Commercial
Performance
Net Plant Capacity, kW 300-10,000
Net Plant Heat Rate, Btu/kWh, 11,000
Capacity Factor, percent 30-70
Economics
Capital Cost, $/kW 700-2,000
Variable O&M, $/MWh 20-33
Levelized Cost, $12/MBtu Fuel, $/MWh 217-256
Kauai Outlook
There is significant potential to utilize combustion turbines with renewable fuels
in Kauai. Like engine generators, the simple cycle turbine is a versatile power
conversion machine that is well suited for use with a variety of renewable fuels.
21 March 2005 3-80 Black & Veatch