28-April-2017 Haveli Power Plant:First Fire achieved for Gas Turbine #1
On April 28th, National Power Parks Management Company Private Limited (NPPMCL) achieved an important milestone with the first fire of first of GE 9HA.01 gas turbine installed at the Haveli Bahadur Shah (HBS) power plant in Jhang. This significant accomplishment was achieved in less than 18 months after the announcement of this large turnkey project, setting a record in execution time. First fire is a critical test where the gas turbine is switched on and run on fuel at the site. This turbine can generate up to 386 megawatts (MW) of reliable power that is expected to be distributed for residential and commercial use within a few days. The 1,230 MW Combined Cycle Power Plant employs the world’s most advanced and highest efficiency frame 9HA.01 Gas Turbines manufactured by General Electric.
A world record was set by achieving first fire in 94 days after the gas turbine’s arrival at site (24-Jan). This is 50 days less than any other installation of this 9HA.01 turbine. Previous record of 146 days was set by Bouchain Power Plant in France. Kazan Power Plant in Russia took 387 days to achieve the same.
Upon commencing combined-cycle commercial operations by the end of this year, HBS will be producing 1,230 MW of electricity at a record efficiency rate of 62.44%. Current world record is held by Bouchain Power Plant in France at 62.22%. HBS will be able to meet the to meet the energy requirement of approximately 2.5 million Pakistani homes.
CEO NPPMCL, Mr. Rashid Mahmood congratulated his team on the successful first fire and termed it a great achievement at a time when the country is in dire need of reliable power supply.
Head of Project Engineering at General Electric Mr. Otman Dinari, who was also present at the occasion, stated, “This is one of the best and fastest executed projects of this size. From a quality and safety perspective its fantastic! We are really glad that the machine has operated on 1st attempt without any hiccups.”
