GE Provides Fuel-Flexibility for Mine Expansion in Western Australia
PERTH, AUSTRALIA—July 20, 2011—Fortescue Metals Group Ltd (Fortescue), one of the world’s largest producers and sea-borne traders of iron ore, has chosen GE’s (NYSE: GE) ecomagination-approved, dual-fuel, LM6000-PF aeroderivative gas turbine technology for its Solomon 1 plant. This fast-track project is part of Fortescue’s US$8.4 billion, three-year expansion in Western Australia’s iron-rich Pilbara region announced last year. It also marks the first installation of the PF variant of the LM6000 in Australia.
“In order to rapidly develop our Solomon Hub and enable secure, low-cost production of iron ore for years to come, we require a highly reliable, highly efficient power plant,” Fortescue Director of Development Peter Meurs said. “Backed by its proven technology, expertise and customer focus, the GE team was very responsive in developing a fast-track solution which meets the demanding requirements of our Solomon Hub.”
GE will supply two LM6000-PF dual fuel gas turbine packages, associated balance of plant and services for Fortescue’s new 120-megawatt (MW) power plant. The LM6000-PF technology is the next generation of GE’s dry low emissions technology and will deliver more than 40 MW at more than 40 percent efficiency at 25°C (and up to 50°C with chilling) while maintaining 25 ppm nitrous oxide (NOx) levels.
GE’s LM6000-PF is approved under ecomagination, GE’s commitment to invest in a future that creates innovative solutions to global environmental challenges. The LM6000-PF has the highest reliability (more than 99 percent) and availability (more than 97 percent) in its range and is able to achieve full generating capacity within 10 minutes. It has high fuel efficiency, versatile operational flexibility and proven dry low emissions technology that can guarantee NOx emissions as low as 15 ppm. The higher efficiency enables lower fuel consumption per unit of power output than competitive technologies, yielding fuel cost savings and NOx and carbon dioxide reductions for turbine operators.
“This fast-track project with Fortescue is another example of how GE works with its customers to develop solutions that meet their needs,” said Tim Rourke, CEO of GE Energy, Australia and New Zealand. “Our LM6000-PF aeroderivative technology is the best choice for mining applications such as Fortescue’s, where high reliability, operational flexibility and the ability to respond to large load swings of the mine, while still maintaining grid stability, are essential to the success of the plant operations.”
The aeroderivative gas turbine packages will be shipped from Houston, Texas, in December 2011 and installed in March 2012. The plant is scheduled to enter commercial operation in the third quarter of 2012. The units will run on diesel fuel initially and then switch to gas when the gas pipeline is available.
About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) is an advanced technology, services and finance company taking on the world’s toughest challenges. Dedicated to innovation in energy, health, transportation and infrastructure, GE operates in more than 100 countries and employs about 300,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.ge.com.
GE also serves the energy sector by providing technology and service solutions that are based on a commitment to quality and innovation. The company continues to invest in new technology solutions and grow through strategic acquisitions to strengthen its local presence and better serve customers around the world. The businesses that comprise GE Energy—GE Power & Water, GE Energy Services and GE Oil & Gas—work together with more than 90,000 global employees and 2010 revenues of $38 billion, to provide integrated product and service solutions in all areas of the energy industry including coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear energy; renewable resources such as water, wind, solar and biogas; as well as other alternative fuels and new grid modernization technologies to meet 21st century energy needs.
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