The Context
A power plant loses efficiency gradually and fails rarely, but each failure is costly. Comparing measured and expected behavior shows both, and provides a technical basis for maintenance and investment decisions.
Typical Challenges
- Gradual loss of turbine and auxiliary system efficiency
- Maintenance costs and outage planning
- Operation in extreme climates, from desert heat to arctic cold
- Part-load operation as renewable generation increases
What Can Be Done
Performance Evaluation
Plant performance, degradation and remaining life are assessed against expected values, including in support of acquisitions.
Predictive Maintenance
Turbines and rotating equipment are monitored so that maintenance follows condition.
Production Optimization
Operating scenarios, including part load, are simulated for gas turbines, combined cycles (CCGT), ORC units and renewable plants, and auxiliary systems are reviewed for losses and unnecessary equipment.
Experience
Previous projects include asset valuation for several power plant transactions and improved reliability of biomass power generation in extreme cold.