LNG Added To Power Mix

GE’s Power Services business has signed an agreement with the Jamaica Public Service Co. (JPS) to help modernize its generation equipment and provide its service expertise at the Bogue Power Station in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

JPS, with responsibility for generation, transmission and distribution on the island, recently introduced liquefied natural gas (LNG) into its fuel mix. This began with the dual-fuel conversion of its 120 MW combined-cycle Bogue Power Station. Now, with the installation of one of GE’s LM2500+ aeroderivative gas turbines at the plant, LNG-fueled generation will contribute up to approximately 15% of JPS’ total power production. This will result in both environmental and financial benefits, including improved operations and maintenance costs.

Repowering with GE’s LM2500+ aeroderivative gas turbine package will enable a power output increase of 20 MW at the plant. In addition to the unit, GE will provide associated installation services as well as inspection services to the existing Brush generator. The LM2500+ product family has been a proven technology for decades and has achieved more than 90 million operating hours with more than 2100 units deployed globally.

“2016 marked a turning point for Jamaica. After more than a decade of preparation and planning, natural gas was finally introduced into the fuel mix for electricity generation in the country, and as the sole distributor of electricity in Jamaica, we see the use of liquified natural gas (LNG) as resulting in greater stability in the price of electricity for our customers,” said Joseph Williams, senior vice president of generation, JPS. “By replacing a 19-year old unit with GE’s advanced aeroderivative technology, we will be able to deliver more efficient power to our people, businesses and critical facilities. Providing sufficient, efficient and reliable power to our customers is essential, as it helps to improve lives and drive development.”

“We have a long and comprehensive history with JPS, having supported the utility on power generation, transmission and distribution and lighting projects for the past 40 years. At Power Services, for example, we have provided maintenance support for equipment at three of JPS’ power stations,” said Ramon Paramio, general manager for Latin America, GE’s Power Services business. “With this latest project, we are working with JPS to bring more diversification to Jamaica’s power mix while also helping to increase the utility’s generation capabilities.”

Over the years, GE has provided support at JPS’ Bogue, Old Harbour and Hunt’s Bay power stations. Recent projects include the addition of an inlet cooling system at the Bogue facility (in 2008) and a dual-fuel conversion at the power station (in 2016). Modernizations like these have helped JPS better meet the needs of its more than 600 000 customers. The utility owns and operates four power stations, nine hydroelectric plants, 43 substations and approximately 14 000 km of transmission and distribution lines.

This latest upgrade project is expected to be complete within the first half of 2018.