In one of the most striking signs that the hydrogen-powered generation revolution may be upon the industry sooner than later, a group will transition its combined cycle gas turbine power plant to run partially on hydrogen by a late 2021 start-up, and go 100% H2 by 2030, writes Rod Walton.

The Long Ridge Energy Terminal (pictured) in Hannibal, Ohio, is now set to burn a percentage of carbon-free hydrogen in the power plant when commercial operations begin as expected in November 2021. The 485MW facility was long planned as a pure combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) facility.

A group including plant operators, New Fortress Energy and General Electric, however, opted to shift to hydrogen over the long term. The GE 7HA.02 combustion turbine reportedly can burn up to 20% hydrogen initially, with the capacity to transition completely over the next decade.

“We are thrilled to work with the Long Ridge and New Fortress Energy teams on this first-of-its kind GE HA-powered project that will drive a cleaner energy future by utilising hydrogen to ultimately produce carbon-free power,” said Scott Strazik, CEO of GE Gas Power.

“As one of the leaders in decarbonisation in the gas turbine industry and the OEM with the most fleet experience in using alternative low heating value fuels including hydrogen, we look forward to applying more than 80 years of experience to help Long Ridge achieve its goal of providing reliable, affordable, and lower-carbon power to its customers.”

Long Ridge has engaged Black & Veatch to assist with developing plans for the plant integration for hydrogen blending and to ensure safe and reliable industrial practices.

New Fortress Energy’s Zero division will support Long Ridge’s carbon-free power transition as it scales up new technologies that can produce low-cost hydrogen. For initial testing of hydrogen blending, Long Ridge has access to nearby industrial byproduct hydrogen.

For the production of green hydrogen with electrolysis, Long Ridge has access to water from the Ohio River. Over time, below ground salt formations can be used for large-scale hydrogen storage.

“Our singular focus has been to identify and support clean technologies that can eventually produce hydrogen at commercially attractive prices,” Wes Edens, CEO and chairman of New Fortress Energy, said in a statement. “As we continue to make progress in our efforts and advance proof of concept projects, this experience will bring tremendous value.”

Initial planning for the gas-fired Long Ridge Energy Terminal dates back about five years. The power plant is being built on a former aluminum plant site, with rail and LNG loading facilities included in the planning.