Sustainable power generation in Kuwait: Reducing pollutants and costs through innovative additive technology

The use of low-quality heavy fuel oil in Kuwait's thermal power plants has resulted in considerable operating inefficiencies and increased emissions of sulfur oxides (SO_x), nitrogen oxides (NO_x), and unburned carbon. These problems elevate maintenance costs, diminish boiler efficiency, and exacerbate environmental deterioration. This research assesses the efficacy of a water-in-oil emulsifier and a magnesium-based neutralizer in improving combustion performance and reducing emissions. Field studies were conducted in partnership with the Ministry of Electricity and Water (MEW) from 2016 to 2018 at four major power plants, with performance metrics assessed before and after treatment. The analysis included unburned carbon in fly ash, nitrogen oxides (NO_x) concentrations, ash pH, free mineral acidity, and the dew point temperature of sulfuric acid.

The findings indicated that the additional treatment decreased unburned carbon by around 40 % and NO_x by as much as 80 %, while concurrently reducing surplus air demands and enhancing heat exchange efficiency. Estimated fuel cost reductions ranged from 51.4 to 77.0 million USD yearly, depending upon operational circumstances. The use of additives decreased boiler fouling and corrosion, hence prolonging equipment life and reducing maintenance requirements. This research demonstrates that the application of fuel-oil additives represents a financially viable and environmentally beneficial strategy for Kuwait's thermal power industry, offering a practical pathway toward cleaner and more sustainable energy production.