New cost saving technologies: microturbines - a new way to generate power

The use of microturbines for power distribution was discussed and illustrated by a series of overhead viewgraphs which accompanied this presentation. The paper presented an explanation of how microturbines work and how they can be used for onsite distributed generation. Microturbines were described as being portable and compact gas turbines of less than 100 kW, with high speed single shaft design. One of their main advantages are their capability for remote monitoring and operation. Results of microturbine testing at Suncor's Joffre Plant were presented. Some of the advantages of using Mercury Electric's IPP and TurboGenerator Distributor were also discussed. The operating modes for the unit include: (1) peak shaving for larger load customers, (2) cogeneration for base load applications, (3) emergency/standby/UPS applications, and (4) portable generation for temporary power. The unit can be used in commercial and industrial buildings and is also ideal for remote locations. The environmental benefits associated with the unit is that it can be used for cogeneration power and can utilize waste gas flares which have been associated with harmful emissions to the atmosphere. 7 figs