NYSE-listed GE Vernova recently announced the successful completion of the modernisation of global energy and chemical company Sasol’s Secunda power plant in Mpumalanga. The project included the replacement of the existing pre-combustor system with a new DLN1+ combustor supplemented by the Fuel Gas Module (FGM) skid to increase the operational efficiency of the two installed 9E gas turbines and reduce carbon emissions.
The upgrade of the power plant for Sasol, Secunda, has led to significant improvements.
It serves as a model for modernising power plants across Africa. As the continent faces increasing energy demands, initiatives like this highlight how innovative solutions can enable more efficient energy production with reduced emissions, without requiring entirely new infrastructure.
The upgrade led to several significant improvements, including those outlined below.
- The reduction of NOx emissions to a level significantly below the guaranteed values of 25 ppm, representing a reduction of three quarters from the previous level.
- Avoiding the use of water as a diluent with the DLN technology, with an expected water consumption saving equivalent to about 64 Olympic-sized pools per turbine, annually.
- An efficiency improvement compared to the previous combustor, translating to about 10 000 metric tonnes less CO2 emitted per gas turbine, supporting Sasol’s environmental objectives.
- Extension of the maintenance intervals, reducing downtime and operational costs.
- Enhanced reliability of the power supply delivered to the national grid.
"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. "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 businesses and communities."
The project was showcased at Enlit Africa, which took place in May at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
GE Vernova has contributed to the development of the energy infrastructure in Africa for over a century, supporting power generation, transmission and distribution solutions, energy sector software applications, talent development, and community outreach.
For more information visit: https://www.gevernova.com/regions/mea
