Mitsubishi Power to Supply Second Advanced Class Gas Turbine to Oklahoma's Grand River Energy Center
Mitsubishi Power and the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) have signed an agreement for the supply of a second advanced class gas turbine to the Grand River Energy Center in Chouteau, Oklahoma. This project marks the first use of the M501JAC gas turbine in simple cycle operation in the United States, providing operational flexibility and fast start-up times to meet the evolving electricity grid's needs.
The signing ceremony, held on October 2, 2023, solidifies the long-term relationship between Mitsubishi Power and GRDA. Construction on the project is scheduled to commence in January 2024, with the unit expected to be operational by April 2026. The agreement also includes long-term service and maintenance, replacement parts supply, and remote monitoring of the units.
The M501JAC gas turbine will replace an aging coal-fired generator, contributing to emissions reduction and meeting efficiency goals. Additionally, the turbine is hydrogen-capable, allowing for future adaptation to operate on hydrogen.
Bill Newsom, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Power Americas, expressed confidence in GRDA's commitment to cleaner and more reliable energy production. The partnership between the two companies has been built on trust and confidence over nearly a decade.
The investment in advanced gas turbines demonstrates GRDA's dedication to enhancing its generation portfolio and providing affordable and reliable energy to customers. Mitsubishi Power's expertise and technology play a crucial role in achieving these goals.
About Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc.
Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc., headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, is a leading provider of power generation, energy storage, and digital solutions. The company focuses on empowering customers to combat climate change while advancing human prosperity. Mitsubishi Power offers a wide range of power generation solutions, energy storage systems, and intelligent solutions that utilize artificial intelligence for autonomous operation.
About Grand River Dam Authority
The Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) is Oklahoma's largest public power electric utility, funded solely by revenues from electric and water sales. GRDA prioritizes electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, employees, and efficiency in its operations.
For more information about the agreement between Mitsubishi Power and GRDA, please visit the official Mitsubishi Power Americas website or contact the Grand River Dam Authority.
Hot Take: The Impact of Advanced Gas Turbines on New Energy Businesses
The recent agreement between Mitsubishi Power and the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) to supply a second advanced class gas turbine to the Grand River Energy Center could have significant implications for new businesses in the energy sector. This project, marking the first use of the M501JAC gas turbine in simple cycle operation in the U.S., represents a leap forward in operational flexibility and fast start-up times.
For new businesses, this development underscores the importance of investing in advanced technology to meet the evolving needs of the electricity grid. It also highlights the potential of long-term partnerships, as demonstrated by the enduring relationship between Mitsubishi Power and GRDA, in achieving ambitious goals.
Moreover, the fact that the M501JAC gas turbine is hydrogen-capable points to a future where energy production could increasingly rely on hydrogen, a clean and abundant energy source. This could open up new opportunities for businesses specializing in hydrogen technology.
However, new businesses must also be prepared for challenges. As the project involves replacing an aging coal-fired generator, businesses must navigate the complexities of transitioning from traditional to more advanced and sustainable energy sources while ensuring reliability and affordability for customers.