GE Vernova’s Gas Power business announced today it has secured a significant order from Korea Western Power Co., Ltd. (KOWEPO), a subsidiary of Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). The agreement involves supplying a GE Vernova 7HA.02 gas turbine and a H65 generator for KOWEPO’s power plant located in Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea.

Modernization and Sustainability

This project marks a crucial step towards South Korea’s energy transition goals. GE Vernova’s advanced 7HA.02 gas turbine will replace the existing, aging coal-fired plant at Gongju-si. The new facility is expected to generate 500 megawatts of clean power while offering the potential for future fuel blends containing up to 30% hydrogen by volume. This capability is contingent upon the development of a large-scale, commercially viable hydrogen manufacturing industry in South Korea.

Enhanced Grid Stability and Environmental Benefits

Beyond increased power generation capacity, the new gas turbine plant will contribute to the stability and reliability of the Korean electricity grid. The ability to quickly respond to grid fluctuations will become increasingly important as South Korea integrates a larger share of renewable energy sources into its power mix.

“This project signifies a major advancement for South Korea’s energy sector,” stated a KOWEPO representative. “The new power plant will not only bolster our nation’s energy security but also contribute to our commitment to phasing out coal-fired generation. Furthermore, the potential for future hydrogen fuel blends aligns perfectly with our national goals for large-scale renewable energy deployment and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.”

Expected Completion and Environmental Impact

The Gongju-si power plant is scheduled to begin commercial operation in 2027. Transitioning from coal to natural gas offers a significant environmental advantage, with the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 60%. GE Vernova’s advanced gas turbine technology will further minimize emissions compared to traditional coal plants, including mercury, nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter.

Partnership and Regional Expertise

GE Vernova will participate in this project as part of an international consortium, collaborating with Daewoo E&C, a leading Korean engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company. This collaboration underscores GE Vernova’s commitment to supporting South Korea’s energy transition goals by offering its advanced gas turbine technology and partnering with local industry leaders.

“GE Vernova is proud to contribute to a lower-carbon future for South Korea,” said Ramesh Singaram, President and CEO of GE Vernova’s Gas Power in Asia. “We are confident that our advanced gas turbine technology will accelerate the phase-out of coal-fired power plants and pave the way for a more sustainable energy future. This project also represents a significant opportunity to increase the share of renewable energy resources in the Korean power grid while laying the groundwork for future hydrogen integration.”

GE Vernova’s Legacy in South Korea

GE Vernova has a long-standing presence in South Korea, actively contributing to the nation’s power generation sector since 1976. Their gas turbines, both simple and combined cycle configurations, contribute to over 14 gigawatts of electricity generation capacity in the country. Their commitment to the region is further exemplified by a large-scale manufacturing plant established in Changwon, South Korea, acquired through the 2015 acquisition of Doosan’s HRSG business.

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