The Flex-Plant 30, because of its fast-start capability, can deliver approximately 200MW of power to the grid within 30 minutes. These short start-up times reduce the emissions of the plant significantly.

With an output of 280MW, the power plant would serve the energy needs of 14 different project participants, including Modesto Irrigation District, Power and Water Resources Pooling Authority, Port of Oakland, Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric, State of California Department of Water Resources, Bay Area Rapid Transit, City of Ukiah, City of Lodi, City of Biggs, City of Azusa, City of Lompoc, City of Santa Clara, City of Healdsburg and the City of Gridley.

The SCC6-5000F single-shaft Flex-Plant 30 is a combined cycle plant designed for intermediate to continuous duty that is capable of daily cycling at efficiencies of approximately 57%. The plant, using the Siemens SGT6-5000F gas turbine as the prime mover, would supply high power density while requiring a relatively small plant footprint.

The Siemens SPPA-T3000 control system would provide a platform for the entire combined cycle power plant. Additionally, the Siemens SST-900RH steam turbine, along with a Benson-style Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG), facilitates fast start-up times, which leads to reduced emissions.

The Flex-Plant 30 technology allows for frequent starting or cycling of the power plant. Its start-up time of approximately 30 minutes or less can result in a carbon monoxide reduction of around 200 tons per year when compared to standard F-class combined cycle plants, which would set a new standard for greenhouse gas emissions for gas-fired combined cycle power plants. Plant start-up times are reduced by up to 50%.

Randy Zwirn, chief executive officer and president of Siemens Energy, said: “Our Flex-Plant 30 technology enables a high level of operating flexibility to react to market opportunities. Shorter plant start-up time, which leads to reduced fuel costs and emissions, is key to enhance the value and environmental compatibility of new power generation assets.”

James Pope, general manager of NCPA, said: “The Northern California Power Agency looks forward to the Flex-Plant 30 providing significant benefits to both consumers and our environment due to its high efficiency and substantially lower emissions.”