As the UK's single largest buyer of gas fuelled engines, we are well aware of new technologies and the associated potential risks and benefits. We have no vested interest in any one technology or technology provider and can bring the best solution to every project.
We therefore keep a close watch on new developments in turbine technology, fuel cells or other areas.
In recent years much has been said of Microturbines. They have a niche, particularly where the main requirement is for high-grade heat, but the issue of reliability is far from certain.
However, for ENER·G Combined Power the real issue has been the energy balance of microturbines versus reciprocating engines or fuel cells. The fact is that microturbines typically produce more heat per kWh of gas input than do reciprocating engines or fuel cells. Put another way, they generally have lower electrical efficiencies and higher thermal efficiencies. As the economics of Cogeneration normally improve with increased electrical efficiency, we expect microturbines to fill niche applications.
Fuel cell technology is the most interesting area of development with the greatest potential to provide very high electrical efficiencies coupled with genuine reliability. Currently at issue is the high cost per kilowatt to install such systems and the level of technical back up available. However, we believe that this is not an insurmountable problem. In the longer term this is a technology for the future.