Progress in Using Liquid Bio-Fuels in DLE Industrial Gas Turbines

Decarbonization of electricity is paramount for the success of curbing growth of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. For many power generation applications there is a growing interest in using bio-fuels to replace fossils-based fuels, such as diesel and natural gas. Bio-fuels, being plant-based fuels, are classified as carbon neutral fuels. Several distributed power generation sites, such as universities, are interested in the feasibility of burning bio-fuels, such as biodiesel and alcohols, in stationary gas turbines to reduce their carbon-footprint as well as earn tax credits. In order to maintain its leadership in fuel-flexibility and to support its distributed power generation customers, Solar has qualified several of its gas turbine models using both the conventional and dry low emissions (DLE) combustion systems on various biodiesel blends. This paper presents results of the combustion rig tests with DLE combustion injectors using biodiesel blends and their comparison with those of No. 2 diesel and natural gas fuels. The emissions (NOx, CO, UHC) from B20 biodiesel blend were similar to that of ULSD, but higher than natural gas. The results are summarized in terms of gas turbines emissions and performance. Impacts of fuel properties on storage, handling and gas turbines operations are discussed. Finally, future development opportunities are also presented.