GE Introduces 1.85-82.5 Wind Turbine for Brazil’s Promising Wind Energy Sector

Press release from General Electric:

30 August 2012

GE Introduces 1.85-82.5 Wind Turbine for Brazil’s Promising Wind Energy Sector

 

• Newest Wind Turbine is Latest Evolution of GE Technology, Proven in Applications Worldwide
• Key Features Make the Technology a Fit for Brazil’s Demanding Wind Regimes
• Offers 8 Percent Increase in Annual Energy Production

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL—August 30, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) is introducing a wind turbine designed to meet the wind conditions in Brazil, one of the world’s most promising markets for onshore wind energy development. GE, North America’s leading wind turbine supplier, is featuring its new 1.85-82.5 wind turbine at the Brazil Windpower Conference in Rio de Janeiro, August 29-31.

The 1.85-82.5 wind turbine, which is IEC-certified for higher wind speed sites or environments, is the latest evolution of GE’s wind turbine technology and builds upon the vast and diverse experience of GE’s installed fleet of 18,000 wind turbines worldwide. The new turbine offers an 8 percent increase in annual energy production (AEP) at 9 m/s, which drives improved project economics for wind developers in higher wind regime sites.

GE’s proprietary Advanced Loads Control allows siting of the 82.5-meter rotor in more aggressive wind regimes, combining drive train sensors and capabilities of the Mark* Vle controller to individually pitch blades and improve load-handling performance. A sophisticated set of grid-friendly features will enable operators to meet stringent grid requirements in 60-hertz regions.

“With the introduction of the 1.85-82.5 wind turbine, we continue to advance our 1.5-megawatt class wind turbine product line, which has been proven in a wide range of wind regimes worldwide,” said Victor Abate, vice president of renewable energy at GE. “Focusing on performance, reliability, efficiency and multi-generational product evolution, the 1.85-82.5 is designed for Brazil’s growing wind energy requirements.”

GE technology already is well established in Brazil, with 300 GE wind turbines now installed in the country. Last year, GE secured agreements to supply wind and gas turbines for projects in Brazil that will produce 1.4 gigawatts of electricity—40 percent of the total amount awarded in energy auctions conducted by Brazil’s National Electric Power Agency. At AWEA Windpower 2012, GE announced that the Miassaba 2 and Aratua 1 wind farms, developed and implemented by Bioenergy, a pioneer in clean energy in Brazil, were the first projects in Latin America to enter operation with GE wind turbines.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Celebrates 300 Wind Turbines Installed in Brazil

Press release from General Electric:

30 August 2012

GE Celebrates 300 Wind Turbines Installed in Brazil

 

• Brazil Installations Projected to Double over next Two Years
• GE Service Centers to Open in Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia, Employing 100 Technicians
• Best Producing Fleet in the Industry Exceeds Performance Expectations

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL—August 30, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE), which this year is celebrating its 10^th anniversary in the wind industry, today announced that it has installed 300 wind turbines in Brazil. Over the next two years, GE will install more than 600 additional units in Brazil as it continues to grow in the region, the company reported at the Brazil Windpower Conference in Rio de Janeiro.

As the GE fleet expands, the company also is announcing its plans to open two local service centers by 2014, representing a $1.5 million investment in Brazil. The service centers will employ more than 100 service technicians and be located in Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia.

GE’s commitment to quality execution is its number one priority. “Execution is a differentiator for GE,” says Jean-Claude Robert, general manager of Latin America for GE’s renewable energy business. “We have delivered all of our projects on schedule, which allows our customers to meet their PPA requirements.”

Designing a product specifically for Brazil’s wind speeds has been a key investment for the region, and today GE announces its 1.85-82.5 turbine, which is based on GE’s proven 1.5-megawatt (MW) platform. Part of its $2 billion investment in renewable energy, GE’s 1.85-82.5 is designed to meet or exceed the historic 98.5 percent availability of the 1.5-MW platform and help improve project economics in higher wind regime sites by requiring fewer turbines per wind farm.

Wind power is the fastest growing source of power generation in Brazil.The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) reports that the Brazilian wind sector installed 583 MW in 2011, bringing the country’s installed capacity up to more than 1,500 MW, an increase of 63 percent. The GWEC has identified Brazil as one of the world’s most promising onshore markets for wind energy for at least the next five years.

GE has been active in Brazil for more than 90 years and opened its wind energy office in Sao Paulo in 2009. The local team leverages GE’s global expertise of engineers, field service technicians and logistics excellence to ensure the highest quality and strongest execution is on point for customers in Brazil.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

Follow GE’s renewable energy business on Twitter @GErenewables.

GE Partners with Excelsior College to Launch Renewable Energy Technology College Credits-for-Work Experience Program

Press release:

07 August 2012

GE Partners with Excelsior College to Launch Renewable Energy Technology College Credits-for-Work Experience Program

 

• GE Employees Eligible to Receive up to Nearly 50 College Credits for Completing Wind Technician Certification Program
• Technicians Train on Wind Turbine Components at GE’s Energy Learning Center
• Excelsior College Adds Renewable Energy Technology Concentration to Bachelor’s Degree Program
• Initiative Highlights U.S. Energy Industry Efforts to Recruit, Train and Retain New Workers

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. —August 7, 2012—Citing the need to recruit and train a larger, educated workforce to support the global expansion of renewable energy, GE (NYSE: GE) and Excelsior College today announced that GE employees can receive up to nearly 50 college credits from the college for completing the company’s intensive renewable energy services training program.

To earn GE’s Lead Certification Standard, technicians must complete more than 500 hours of classroom, online and practical, hands-on field training on wind turbine components at GE’s Energy Learning Center (ELC) in Schenectady, N.Y., where GE’s renewable energy business is headquartered.

At the ELC, technicians are trained—with a strong focus on safety—to inspect and repair actual GE wind turbine components, including the nacelle, which is installed atop a 200-foot steel tower and houses the wind turbine’s generating equipment.

Technicians who complete the certification program now are eligible to earn up to 49 credit hours for their work experience through Excelsior College, the leading nonprofit, regionally accredited distance education institution in the nation.

Excelsior College has created a new concentration in Renewable Energy Technologies within the school’s Bachelor of Professional Studies in Technology Management program. The general public is eligible to register for this concentration starting August 8, 2012. GE’s technicians also may apply their college credits to the new degree concentration.

“Excelsior College recognizes the future of adult education will be increasingly aligned with the needs of businesses and workers alike, including the energy industry,” said Excelsior College President Dr. John F. Ebersole. “We are pleased to partner with GE on our new renewable energy area of focus within our Bachelor of Professional Studies program and reach a new segment of the competitive adult education population.”

Travis Anderson is one of the first GE service technicians to enroll in the Excelsior College program. Anderson, GE’s site lead at the Blue Canyon Wind Farm in Oklahoma, has worked at wind farm sites using GE turbines for five years. After helping develop the process that enabled GE technicians to participate in the Excelsior College program, he enrolled himself and is eligible to receive 48 credits.

“The renewable energy college credits program with Excelsior College is important to us as GE employees because it recognizes the value of our training and rewards us for our classroom and practical work experience,” Anderson said.

The quality and thoroughness of GE’s certification program is a significant differentiator for GE’s renewables services business. The Energy Learning Center also offers one of the most comprehensive array of training classes in the energy industry.

“Offering our employees the opportunity to earn college credits for completing our Wind Technician Certification Program not only enhances the value of our products and services, but it also enables GE to compete for—and retain—the skilled workers we need to support our globally installed base of wind turbines,” said Andy Holt, general manager—renewable energy services for GE Power & Water.

The Excelsior College program marks the first time GE has partnered with a U.S. college to award credits to its renewable energy technicians for their work experience. GE has forged relationships with a number of other U.S. colleges and universities—including Union Graduate College in Schenectady—in complementary fields as the energy industry seeks to recruit and train new engineers and technicians as employees from the “Baby Boomer” era retire.

About Excelsior College
Excelsior College is a regionally accredited, nonprofit distance learning institution that focuses on removing obstacles to the educational goals of adult learners. Founded in 1971 and located in Albany, NY, Excelsior is a proven leader in the assessment and validation of student knowledge. It offers more efficient and affordable access to degree completion through multiple avenues: its own online courses and college-level proficiency examinations, and the acceptance in transfer of credit from other colleges and universities as well as recognized corporate and military training programs. Excelsior College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Excelsior’s bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering technology and nuclear engineering technology are accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, a specialized accrediting agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food and beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Renewable Energy on Twitter at @GErenewables

GE’s 2.75-Megawatt Wind Turbine Technology to Power New Wind Farm on Sweden’s West Coast

News release:

02 July 2012

GE’s 2.75-Megawatt Wind Turbine Technology to Power New Wind Farm on Sweden’s West Coast

 

• Swedish Energy Developer Triventus to Install GE’s Wind Turbines near Falkenberg
• Triventus Wind Farm Scheduled to Begin Operating in Second Quarter of 2013
• Project Illustrates Growing Popularity of GE’s Wind Energy Technology in Sweden

SALZBERGEN, GERMANY—July 2, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) today announced that Swedish energy developer Triventus Wind Power AB will use GE’s proven wind turbine technology to power a new 27.5-megawatt (MW) wind farm project being built near Falkenberg on Sweden’s west coast.

GE will supply Triventus with 10 of its 2.75-103 wind turbines. When it begins operating, the wind farm will generate enough renewable electricity to power the equivalent of 7,500 houses in Sweden. Like other Swedish wind farms, the Triventus project will be supported through the country’s green certificate support system.

Most of Sweden’s domestically generated energy traditionally has been produced by nuclear power plants and hydroelectric facilities. However, to comply with the European Union’s Renewables Directive, Sweden is working to expand wind farm installations throughout the country, according to the Swedish Wind Energy Association.

“Given Sweden’s need to expand the role of wind energy, GE’s wind turbine technology has a proven track record of reliability and efficiency to ensure our project is successfully implemented on schedule,” said Linda Pålsson, MD Triventus Wind Power.

GE Energy will deliver the wind turbines to the project site during the first and second quarters of 2013. The wind farm is scheduled to begin commercial service in the second quarter of 2013. GE Energy also will provide maintenance support to the units under a five-year service agreement.

The Triventus project is located close to two other wind farms that also are powered by GE’s wind turbines, illustrating the widespread acceptance of GE’s wind technology in the country.

"With the 2.75 turbine, Triventus is investing into a technology that is built on the proven 2.5 platform. The solid design of this platform ensures high availability rates and with that supports the country’s renewables targets in the long run,” said Stephan Ritter, GE’s general manager for renewable energy in Europe.

In 2011, GE announced that Stena Renewable Wind Energy Company would deploy 40 of GE’s 2.5-100 units for four new wind farms in the southern Swedish municipalities of Laholm Boxholm and Mjölby.

Also in 2011, GE and Göteborg Energi began installing a 4.1-113 offshore turbine in the Gothenburg harbor in in Risholmsvägen, marking the first commercial application of GE’s 4.1-MW technology. The new turbine, which produces enough electricity to supply 3,000 Swedish homes per year, recently completed its first test run with an availability rate of over 99 percent. The test run was conducted in cooperation with Göteborg Energi and Gothenburg-based Chalmers University.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food and beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Energy on Twitter @GE_Energy.

GE Advances Wind Turbine Inspection Through Successful Robotic Trial

Press release:

13 June 2012

GE Advances Wind Turbine Inspection Through Successful Robotic Trial

 

Vertical climbing device equipped with high-tech camera can enable closer view and faster inspections
Use of microwave scanner to analyze composition and integrity of blade material also being explored

NISKAYUNA, N.Y., June 13, 2012 – GE Global Research is advancing technology that will make the inspection of wind turbines faster and more reliable for customers.

Currently, an inspector examines the massive turbine blades from the ground, about 100 meters (328’) away, by using a high-power telescope. Now, partnering with Ithaca, N.Y.-based International Climbing Machines (ICM), GE engineers have explored a way to do the work using a remote-controlled, robotic device that can scale the wind tower with a wireless, high-definition video camera strapped to its back.

The motivation for the closer inspection is to obtain a more accurate picture of the overall health of the wind turbine blades. From the safety of the ground, an inspector would have a real-time, view of the blades from less than 10 meters (33’) away, allowing for a more thorough examination and evaluation of their condition.

“Technology advances have helped to make GE’s wind turbine fleet the most reliable in the industry; we’re always looking for ways to strengthen this record. One way we can is by enabling more reliable inspections that can detect and mitigate potential issues even earlier,” says Waseem Faidi, Manager of the Nondestructive Evaluation Lab at GE Global Research.

Faidi continued, “The inspection technology platform GE is developing with ICM provides a closer view of the turbine blade to detect repair and service needs. And in the future, GE researchers are working on technology that will allow inspectors to see through the blade materials and identify potential issues well in advance of any service needs. This all will mean faster diagnosis and repair – minimizing the risk of failure or forced down-time of the turbine.”

GE is one of the world’s largest suppliers of wind turbines with a fleet of 18,000 turbines worldwide. Accurate and reliable servicing is critically important and GE’s suite of service offerings help owners and operators maximize both reliability and availability. GE more than doubled its investment in services research and development in 2010 and 2011 as it built a world-class portfolio of services. GE’s wind services solutions incorporate the company’s advanced technology, global resources and services facilities and a network of skilled, highly trained local technicians who are closely connected to GE’s engineering organization.

This new technology was recently tested at a wind farm in Texas with positive results. Other advantages to using the climber over conventional methods include better weather tolerance. No longer would inspections have to be delayed due to poor lighting conditions, rain, or snow.

GE scientists are also exploring other ways to take inspection technology to new heights. They are in the process of developing a microwave scanner that could be fitted onto the robotic vehicle, enabling an even better view of the wind blades. The use of microwaves would do more than provide a surface view; it would allow inspectors to see through the blade material giving an even earlier indication of any breakdown in the structure. At GE’s India Technology Center, scientists are also testing the use of small, helicopter-like vehicles that would provide for a similar view.

About GE Global Research

GE Global Research is the hub of technology development for all of GE's businesses. Our scientists and engineers redefine what’s possible, drive growth for our businesses and find answers to some of the world’s toughest problems.

We innovate 24 hours a day, with sites in Niskayuna, New York; Bangalore, India; Shanghai, China; Munich, Germany; and fifth global research facility to open in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Visit GE Global Research on the web atwww.ge.com/research. Connect with our technologists athttp://edisonsdesk.com and http://twitter.com/edisonsdesk.

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Executing 3 GW of GE’s 1.6-100 Wind Turbines

Press release:

04 June 2012

Executing 3 GW of GE’s 1.6-100 Wind Turbines

 

• Commitments to Date Total $3.6 Billion
• Highest Capacity Factor Turbine Operating in North America
• Offers 19 Percent Increase in Annual Energy Production

AWEA WINDPOWER 2012Booth #2217
ATLANTA, GA.—June 4, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) has received commitments to provide its 1.6-100 wind turbine for projects that will add 1.8 gigawatts of capacity to the world’s clean energy supply by end of 2012. Agreements for the 1.6-100, the highest capacity factor wind turbine operating in North America, have totaled $3.6 billion since its introduction a year ago, with projected volumes of more than 1,500 units installed globally by 2013.

Recent commitments for the 1.6-100 have come from Canada, Brazil and Turkey, as well as the United States. “The market acceptance of our new technology has been widespread and demonstrates the confidence that our customers have in our technology innovation,” said Vic Abate, vice president of renewable energy for GE. “We developed the 1.6-100 with our customers’ requirements in mind; specifically, the need for technology that improves the economics of wind by increasing turbine efficiency even at lower wind speeds. It underscores our commitment to continue providing value-added solutions to help our customers compete successfully in today’s wind sector.”

With blades and towers that extend 100 meters—approximately the height of a 33-story building—the 1.6-100 wind turbine captures additional wind energy. It offers a 47 percent increase in swept area over previous megawatt-class models, resulting in a 19 percent increase in annual energy production at wind speeds of 7.5 meters per second. This enables the turbine to deliver moderate wind speed performance even when operating in low-wind environments.

The 1.6-100 wind turbine builds on the vast experience of GE’s global fleet of 18,000 operating wind turbines. It is based on the proven hub and blades of GE’s 2.5-100 and the nacelle and electrical system of GE’s 1.6-82.5, which is currently operating at 98.5 percent production-based availability.

GE’s wind turbine technology is qualified under ecomagination, the company’s commitment to address challenges such as the need for cleaner, more efficient sources of energy, reduced emissions and abundant sources of clean water. GE’s current product portfolio includes wind turbines with rated capacities ranging from 1.5 to 4.1 megawatts and support services ranging from remote monitoring and fault resolution to complete operations and maintenance support.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy- and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food & beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Energy on Twitter @GERenewables.

DTE Energy Selects Advanced GE Technology for Four Wind Projects in Michigan

Press release:

04 June 2012

DTE Energy Selects Advanced GE Technology for Four Wind Projects in Michigan

 

• GE Supplying 137 1.6-100 Wind Turbines to Provide Clean Energy for the Region
• Helps Michigan Accelerate Progress toward Renewable Energy Goals
• The 1.6-100 is the World’s Most Efficient Wind Turbine in Its Class

AWEA WINDPOWER 2012Booth #2217

ATLANTA, GA.—June 4, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) has received contracts to supply 137 wind turbines to DTE Energy for wind projects in lower Michigan. With a total capacity of 220 megawatts of clean energy, the projects support Michigan’s renewable portfolio standard (RPS), which mandates the state to produce 10 percent of its power from renewable sources by 2015. GE announced the deals today at the American Wind Energy Association’s WINDPOWER 2012.

GE is supplying DTE Energy with 69 advanced 1.6-100 wind turbines for its Sigel, Minden and McKinley projects and 68 1.6-100 units for its wind project in Chandler Township, adjacent to the McKinley site. In the latter project, DTE Energy will file for approval from the Michigan Public Service Commissionlater this year. DTE Energy’s total investment in these projects is $500 million.

Introduced last year, GE’s 1.6-100 wind turbine is the world’s most efficient wind turbine in its class. With blades and towers that extend 96 meters—equivalent to 32 building stories—the 1.6-100 captures additional wind energy in low wind speed sites.

“We’re looking forward to working with GE and its wind turbine technology,” said Irene Dimitry, DTE Energy executive director, Energy Efficiency & Renewables. “The contract with GE also provides the benefit of having the same technology platform on all four wind parks.”

“GE and DTE Energy have a long standing working history. We are very pleased to now partner with DTE on renewable technology in this next phase of our relationship,” said Vic Abate, vice president of renewable energy for GE.

DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include Detroit Edison, an electric utility serving 2.1 million customers in Southeastern Michigan, MichCon, a natural gas utility serving 1.2 million customers in Michigan and other non-utility, energy businesses focused on gas storage and pipelines, unconventional gas production, power and industrial projects and energy trading.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy- and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food & beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Energy on Twitter @GERenewables.

GE-Tamoin Consortium Signs Milestone Wind Turbine Service Agreement with Iberdrola

News release from GE:

15 May 2012

GE-Tamoin Consortium Signs Milestone Wind Turbine Service Agreement with Iberdrola

 

• Largest Single Maintenance Agreement for GE Wind Turbines in Europe
• Covers 310 Wind Turbines at Projects Across Spain
• Three-Year Agreement to Help Iberdrola Reach Clean Energy Goals

MADRID, SPAIN—May 15, 2012—A consortium including GE (NYSE: GE) and Spanish energy services company Tamoin Energías Renovables signed the largest single GE wind turbine maintenance agreement in Europe with Iberdrola Renovables S.A. of Madrid. The contract with Iberdrola, one of the world’s largest wind energy companies, covers servicing 310 GE wind turbines installed in Spain.

The agreement is set for three years with an option to extend for two additional years and provides the foundation for a long-term relationship among Iberdrola, GE and Tamoin. GE will act as the technology partner in the consortium to provide high availability and reliability for the installed GE wind turbine fleet by supplying parts, specialized labor and technological support, while Tamoin will supply skilled labor.

The scope of the agreement includes planned and unplanned maintenance for the GE wind turbines at the following Iberdrola wind farms: Cuesta Colorada, Cerro Calderón, Cerro Palo, Muela 1, Maza, Calleja, Isabela and Sierra Quemada y Gavilanes.

“Our goal, in collaboration with our partner Tamoin, is to provide Iberdrola with the highest level of service to help optimize operations while maximizing production,” said Ramon Paramio, Europe wind services leader at GE’s renewable energy business.

The GE-Tamoin consortium has been working with Iberdrola for the past two years under an existing services agreement at Iberdrola wind farms in Germany and Poland. In addition, GE has provided equipment and services to Iberdrola for a wide range of energy projects over recent years, including the thermal, aeroderivative and renewable energy sectors.

The services unit of GE’s renewables business has been growing rapidly. GE more than doubled its investment in services research and development in both 2010 and 2011, as it continues to build a world-class portfolio of services. GE’s wind service solutions incorporate the company’s advanced technology, global resources and service facilities and a network of skilled, highly trained local technicians who are closely connected to GE’s engineering organization. GE service agreements give customers access to GE’s suite of wind turbine upgrades, which are based on technology evolution and in-depth product knowledge.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy- and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food & beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Energy on Twitter @GE_Energy.

GE Technology to Boost Output of Poland’s Next Utility-Scale Wind Projects

Press release:

08 May 2012

GE Technology to Boost Output of Poland’s Next Utility-Scale Wind Projects

 

• GE 38 2.5-Megawatt Wind Turbines with 103-Meter Rotors to Power Four Polish Wind Projects
• Supporting Poland’s Renewable Energy Efforts
• GE Opening Polish Service Center to Provide Local, Long-Term Support

SALZBERGEN, GERMANY—May 8, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) will supply 38wind turbines for four wind projects in construction in Northern Poland. When operational, these projects, referred to collectively as Darlowo Wind Energy Center—Phase Two (Darlowo—Phase Two), will mark the first use of GE’s 2.5-megawatt class wind turbines that feature 103-meter rotors for high productivity in Poland.

Invenergy Wind LLC (Invenergy) and Polish development company Enerco sp. z o.o. (Enerco) are collaborating to develop nine wind energy generation projects in the region in and around Darlowo, near the Baltic Sea. GE provided 32 wind turbines for Darlowo—Phase One, which was fully commissioned in March 2011 and today produces 80 megawatts of power. Darlowo—Phase One is comprised of the Weikowice, Jezyce and Dobiesław projects.

Darlowo—Phase Two, comprised of the Boryszewo, Krupy, Stary Jarosław and Nowy Jarosław facilities, will bring the total installed capacity of wind energy in the Darłowo area to 175 megawatts.

Darlowo—Phase Three will consist of two additional projects—Gorzyca and Pekanino—which currently are under contract. These sites will boost the aggregate output of the nine Darlowo projects to 250 megawatts.

“The Darlowo Wind Energy Center is a wonderful example of Poland embracing the economic and environmental benefits of its wind energy resources,” said Michael Polsky, president and chief executive officer of Invenergy. “Wind energy is playing an increasingly important role in helping Poland meet its commitments to the European Union with regard to green energy generation.”

GE’s 2.5 series wind turbines offer high efficiency and reliability for a broad range of wind conditions. Built on the proven performance of GE’s 1.5-megawatt wind turbine, the world’s most widely deployed machine in the wind industry with more than 16,500 units installed worldwide, the 2.5-megawatt wind turbines with a 103-meter rotor will help the Darlowo projects provide increased energy capacity while maintaining required levels of efficiency, reliability and grid-connection capabilities.

“Darlowo is the result of outstanding regional collaboration between Invenergy and GE,” said Stephan Ritter, general manager of GE’s renewable energy business in Europe. “Due to the scale of the project, we are establishing a service center in Darlowo to ensure the long-term reliability and performance of our wind turbines.”

The wind turbines for the Darlowo—Phase Two will be assembled at GE’s facility in Salzbergen, Germany. Commercial operation of the turbines is to commence in the fourth quarter of 2012.

About Invenergy
Invenergy and its affiliated companies develop, own and operate large-scale renewable and other clean energy generation facilities in North America and Europe. Invenergy is committed to clean power alternatives and continued innovation in electricity generation. Invenergy's home office is located in Chicago with regional development offices located throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

As the nation's largest independent wind power generation company, Invenergy and its affiliated companies currently have over 6,600 MW of wind, solar and thermal projects under contract, in construction or in operation. For more information, please visit www.invenergyllc.com.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy- and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food & beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Energy on Twitter @GE_Energy.

GE PulsePOINT* Technology Helps Wind Operators Reduce Costs and Achieve Optimal Energy Production

25 April 2012

GE PulsePOINT* Technology Helps Wind Operators Reduce Costs and Achieve Optimal Energy Production

 

• New Service Detects Turbine Anomalies, Offers Corrective Actions
• Key Benefits Include Reduced Turbine Operating Costs, Increased Output
• Capability Included as Part of All Existing GE Wind Service Operations and Maintenance Agreements
• Latest Expansion of GE’s Suite of Wind Services

SCHENECTADY, N.Y.—April 25, 2012—GE (NYSE: GE) today announced a new technology that can help give wind farm operators a competitive edge by identifying problems with wind turbines before they can cause downtime or major failures. Using advanced software, GE’s innovative PulsePOINT* Advanced Monitoring and Diagnostic Services help operators reduce costs and achieve optimal energy production by increasing wind turbine reliability and availability.

PulsePOINT incorporates advanced GE-proprietary anomaly detection algorithms with SCADA data and GE Bently Nevada condition monitoring equipment (if installed on the turbine). The system collects wind farm and fleet data from hundreds of turbine sensors and key SCADA control parameters. Currently running more than 150 unique rules and algorithms 24 hours a day, PulsePOINT detects and prioritizes anomalies in wind turbine operations and identifies the proper course of corrective action. This includes identifying wind turbines that are underproducing to ensure customers are achieving optimal energy production.

“PulsePOINT is just the latest example of how GE continues to expand our suite of service offerings, to provide even stronger support for our customers in the wind industry,” said Andy Holt, Wind Services general manager for GE Power & Water. “We are committed to developing new technologies that will further enhance the reliability and productivity of our wind turbines worldwide.”

This technology was developed over the past several years, with an investment of more than $3 million. PulsePOINT is currently operating on data from more than 12,000 wind turbines worldwide in GE’s fleet. Warrantied owners, operations and maintenance, full-service agreement and Bently Nevada condition monitoring customers receive the full capabilities of the services.

With years of experience in monitoring and prognostics of jet engines, helicopters, locomotives and oil and gas rotating equipment, GE wind customers benefit from the expertise and synergies across a number of GE businesses. PulsePOINT technology applies proprietary algorithms developed through a joint effort between GE’s wind business and GE Aviation Systems, using a combination of SCADA data, Bently Nevada ADAPT.wind condition monitoring equipment (if installed on the turbine) and other key inputs to monitor and prioritize turbine health. Further capabilities are planned to optimize maintenance.

GE’s wind service solutions are supported by the company’s advanced technology, global resources and service facilities and a network of skilled, highly trained local technicians who are closely connected to GE’s engineering organization. GE full service agreements also give customers access to GE’s suite of turbine upgrades that are based on new product evolutions and the in-depth product knowledge that only an original equipment manufacturer can provide.

* Trademark of the General Electric Company.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website 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 Management and GE Oil & Gas—work together with more than 100,000 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.

Assignment of Fuji Heavy Industries Wind Turbine Generator System Business to Hitachi

Assignment of Fuji Heavy Industries
Wind Turbine Generator System Business to Hitachi

Tokyo, March 30, 2012 – Hitachi Ltd. (NYSE:HIT / TSE:6501, Hitachi) and Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd. (TSE:7270, FHI) have reached a basic agreement on the assignment of FHI's wind turbine generator system business to Hitachi. Towards the completion of assignment, which is planned for July 1, 2012, Hitachi and FHI will discuss the specific terms of the future agreement.

In recent years, environmental awareness and the rapid increase in the price of materials have been important issues in our society. The value of applying renewable energies including wind energy and solar energy are becoming increasingly apparent. Specifically in the area of wind power generation systems, further introduction and expansion in Japan is widely predicted, especially given Japan's geography. Japan has many hills and mountains, and wind turbines can be installed even in those areas. It is also anticipated that demand for large wind turbine systems will also increase in offshore markets in the future.

Hitachi and FHI co-developed a 2,000kW level downwind type power generation system in 2003. This prototype machine was installed in Hasaki, Kamisu City, Ibaraki Pref. Japan in December 2005, followed by the delivery of a total of 25 units of wind power generation systems at 6 sites throughout the country. The downwind type turbine is a wind turbine that is installed with its rotor under the lee of the tower. It can effectively catch wind to generate power on hills and at sea. Hitachi designed and manufactured the power generator and the power control component and has also sold and installed the wind power system. FHI designed and manufactured the nacelle, blade, and tower. Hitachi and FHI have developed a strong business relationship through their cooperation and expansion of this business.

After the assignment, Hitachi will consolidate the resources of the two companies to enhance the design and development capability, and integrate the manufacturing and distribution so that it can quickly respond to future market needs. Hitachi will combine its power control technologies as well as the system linkage and stabilization technologies with FHI's downwind type turbine technologies, with the goal of expanding further into the renewable energy market.

FHI will concentrate its management resources to other divisions including the Subaru automotive business.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi, Ltd., (NYSE: HIT / TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading global electronics company with approximately 360,000 employees worldwide. Fiscal 2010 (ended March 31, 2011) consolidated revenues totaled 9,315 billion yen ($112.2 billion). Hitachi will focus more than ever on the Social Innovation Business, which includes information and telecommunication systems, power systems, environmental, industrial and transportation systems, and social and urban systems, as well as the sophisticated materials and key devices that support them. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at http://www.hitachi.com.

About Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd.

FHI, the maker of Subaru automobiles, is a leading manufacturer in Japan with a long history of technological innovations that dates back to its origin as an aircraft company. While the automotive business is a main business pillar, FHI's Aerospace, Industrial Products and Eco Technologies divisions offer a diverse range of products from general-purpose engines, power generators, and sanitation trucks to small airplanes, crucial components for passenger aircrafts, and wind-powered electricity generating systems. Recognized internationally for its AWD (all-wheel drive) technology and Horizontally-Opposed engines in Subaru, FHI is also spearheading the development of environmentally friendly products and is committed to contributing to global environmental preservation.

Industry Milestone: GE’s Heavy Duty Gas Turbines Surpass 2 Million Fired Hours on Low Carbon-Intensity Fuels

28 March 2012

Industry Milestone: GE’s Heavy Duty Gas Turbines Surpass 2 Million Fired Hours on Low Carbon-Intensity Fuels

 

• Waste Fuels from Industrial Operations Like Steelmaking Produce Power with Zero Incremental CO₂ Emissions
• Power from Coal Gasification Enables Future Generations of Low Carbon Coal-Fired Plants
• GE Low-Carbon Technologies Demonstrate Maturity, Reliability and Affordability

ATLANTA, GA.—March 28, 2012—GE’s (NYSE: GE) fleet of 47 heavy duty gas turbines operating on low British thermal unit (BTU) fuels has accumulated more than 2 million fired hours, an operational milestone that underscores GE’s commitment to developing specialized solutions that meet the demands of today’s evolving energy industry.

Low BTU, or low calorific value fuels have significantly less heating values than natural gas. Examples include syngas, steel mill gases and dilute natural gas. These fuels are lighter than natural gas and have less energy per unit volume.

The fuel flexibility inherent in GE’s B, E and F-class turbines has allowed these units to operate on low BTU fuels in a variety of applications, including integrated gasification combined-cycle (IGCC), refinery-based IGCC and steel mills.

“In a carbon-constrained environment, the technology trend is for combustion systems capable of burning syngas and other nontraditional fuels while also delivering the required operability. In this context, the strong operational experience gained by GE gas turbines with a wide variety of fuels creates favorable prospects, both for robust E-class machines and for F-class machines that deliver high performance,” said Paul Browning, president and CEO—Thermal Products for GE Energy.

To achieve the same heat input as natural gas-fired units, low BTU fuels need increased fuel flow. This flow rate requires the fleet to use GE’s Multi Nozzle Quiet Combustion (MNQC) and standard (single nozzle) syngas combustors, which provide robust and reliable operation on low BTU fuels.

The hours accumulated by the fleet include projects totaling more than 4 gigawatts of installed power generation capacity at 21 plants. One million of those hours have been achieved on GE’s E-class turbines. Roughly 600,000 hours have been accumulated on GE’s B-class while the remaining 400,000 hours were amassed on the F-class. Some of the turbines have been running on syngas or other fuels for more than a decade including a large coal-based IGCC facility in Florida and an Italian refinery. Others are newer installations operating at locations in the United States, Germany, Italy, Canada, Netherlands, Czech Republic, China, Middle East,and Singapore.

A case in point is the Wuhan Iron & Steel Group Corp. (WISCO) steel mill near Wuhan City in Hubei Province, China. To comply with China’s goals to reduce energy consumption and emissions, WISCO installed a combined-cycle power plant—powered by two GE 9E Gas Turbines—at the Wuhan mill.

Reusing the mill’s own “blast furnace” and “coke oven” waste gases (BFG and COG) as “free” fuel, the two GE 109 combined-cycle systems each generate 164 megawatts of onsite power to support the mill’s activities. Currently, the power plant’s annual output is 1 billion kWh/a, with a guaranteed electrical efficiency greater than 42 percent (LHV).

The key benefits of this project for WISCO include a reduction in emissions associated with the waste gases created during the steel production process and new revenues generated by the sale of some of the power plant’s electricity to the local grid.

GE’s fleet of heavy duty gas turbines operating on low BTU fuels continues to grow, as customers look to do more with less.

GE Heavy Duty Gas Turbine Hours Fired on Low BTU fuels
Experience by frame:

• 1 million hours on GE E-class turbines.
• 600,000 hours on GE B-class turbines.
• 400,000 hours on GE F-class turbines.

Experience by application:

• 450,000 hours at coal-based IGCC facilities.
• 860,000 hours at refineries.
• 700,000 hours at steel mills.

Experience by region/country:

• 250,000 hours at facilities operating across Asia.
• 280,000 hours at facilities operating across North America.
• More than 1 million hours at facilities operating across Europe.

About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy- and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food & beverage and unconventional fuels.

Follow GE Energy on Twitter @GE_Energy.

News Release from GE

14 March 2012

GE Upgrade Project to Expand Output, Increase Efficiency at Progress Energy Plant

 

• Upgrade to Increase Site Output by 16 Megawatts
• Project to Deliver Combined Cycle Efficiency Improvement of 1 Percent

RALEIGH, N.C.—March 14, 2012—An advanced technology upgrade of two GE (NYSE: GE) gas turbines at a Progress Energy power plant in the Smith Energy Complex will help the site continue meeting growing energy demands through increased output, greater efficiency and lower emissions.

GE will upgrade two GE Frame 7FA Gas Turbines, which have been operating on natural gas since 2002, with compressor and combustion system enhancements as well as GE’s new Advanced Gas Path to improve the site’s output by 16 megawatts and fuel efficiency by more than 1 percent. GE expects the upgrades to extend the plant’s parts life and increase the time between scheduled outages. GE’s new Advanced Gas Path solution for the 7FA expands gas turbine output and heat rate performance through both material and design innovations.

More than 750 GE Frame 7FA Gas Turbines are in operation worldwide and have been proven in more than 25 million hours of service. The 7FA fleet accounts for 15 percent of North America’s installed electrical capacity.

“This project has been a close collaboration between Progress Energy and GE to identify a solution that will deliver higher levels of performance to the Richmond County site without sacrificing operational flexibility or reliability,” said James A. Kaveney, general manager of GE Energy’s Power Generation Services Americas group.

The site’s upgrade package also includes dry low NO_x (DLN) combustion technology designed to lower emissions while saving water. GE DLN combustors are equipped on more than 650 7FA Gas Turbines with more than 20 million fired hours.

GE also will install an Enhanced Transient Stability application at the Smith Energy Complex. This advanced controls solution will help protect the plant against grid instability. By minimizing the effect of grid transients, the power plant can see higher up time and provide critical power during this time period. This controls based solution can be installed during a typical hot gas path or major inspection.

The enhancement project is scheduled to be completed by October 2012.

Progress Energy (NYSE: PGN), a Fortune 500 energy company based in Raleigh, is implementing a coal-to-natural gas fleet modernization plan aimed at reducing emissions and fuel costs while providing reliable, affordable electric service to 1.5 million Carolina households and businesses.