CS Energy’s Brigalow Peaking Power Plant will utilize GE Vernova’s LM2500XPRESS* aeroderivative turbines, capable of operating on 35% green hydrogen initially, with plans to reach 100% within a decade.

Brisbane, Australia; January 8, 2024 — GE Vernova’s Gas Power division (NYSE: GE) has announced an order from Queensland’s CS Energy for 12 LM2500XPRESS* aeroderivative turbines. These turbines will power the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant in the Western Downs Region, providing up to 400 megawatts (MW) of reliable energy. This plant, the first hydrogen-ready power station in Queensland, is expected to enhance grid stability and support the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan. It is set to commence commercial operations in 2026.

The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant will initially operate on 35% green hydrogen, with the potential to transition to 100% hydrogen fuel over the next decade. The plant’s fast-start capability allows it to go from cold to full output in just five minutes, making it ideal for supporting periods of high demand and supplementing variable solar and wind power generation. Once operational, the plant will provide electricity equivalent to the average consumption of more than 150,000 Queensland homes during peak times.

Queensland Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni, stated, “The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant exemplifies our commitment to transitioning from fossil fuels to green hydrogen, produced locally from our abundant sun, wind, and water. Green hydrogen has the potential to create 10,000 jobs and contribute $33 billion to the economy by 2040. This project is a vital part of our strategy to seize the greatest job, climate, and export opportunities of this generation.”

CS Energy’s CEO Darren Busine commented, “Our goal is to secure a balanced mix of energy sources to meet decarbonization goals and support the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan. The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant’s ability to perform multiple start/stop cycles daily and ramp up to full power quickly is essential for creating clean energy hubs and transitioning to renewable energy while providing reskilling opportunities for our workforce.”

While Australia’s renewable energy capacity continues to grow, efficient gas turbine technology remains crucial for grid stability. As coal is phased out and renewable generation increases, maintaining grid stability is increasingly challenging.

Eric Gray, CEO of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business, remarked, “Decarbonization requires a combination of renewable and gas power. Our advanced gas power technologies, including hydrogen-friendly turbines, are key to near zero-carbon power generation. We are proud to partner with CS Energy on this significant project for Queensland’s renewable future.”

GE Vernova’s LM2500XPRESS Technology

The LM2500XPRESS power plant is based on GE Vernova’s LM2500 aeroderivative gas turbine technology. It is 95% factory-assembled into modules for rapid and straightforward site installation, offering flexible power quickly and efficiently. The LM2500 turbines have logged over 120 million operating hours, with cycling capabilities designed for daily starts and stops, making them ideal for grids with high renewable energy penetration. The units for this project will be assembled at GE Vernova’s Manufacturing Excellence Center in Veresegyhaz, Hungary.

About GE Vernova

GE Vernova is a global energy company comprising Power, Wind, and Electrification businesses, supported by Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. With over 130 years of experience, GE Vernova leads the energy transition, focusing on electrification and decarbonization. Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with over 80,000 employees in more than 100 countries, GE Vernova provides advanced gas-powered technologies and decarbonization solutions.

The name “GE Vernova” reflects its mission: “GE” signifies its legacy of quality, “Ver” and “verde” represent Earth’s green ecosystems, and “Nova” from Latin “novus” denotes a new era of low-carbon energy. GE Vernova’s purpose, “The Energy to Change the World,” aims to deliver affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy.

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