‘The main challenges of installing gas turbine units (GTUs) in Ukraine are synchronization with the power grid and modernization of distribution equipment,’ said Vadym Lytvynenko, Executive Director of Research and Production Enterprise ENERGO-PLUS LLC (Kremenchuk), which commissioned a Mitsubishi GTU with a capacity of 23.8 MW in central Ukraine in August 2024.
‘Both gas piston and gas turbine stations are considered worldwide as backup or emergency power sources that operate independently of the power grid (…). Energo-Plus had to tackle a drastically different task: the gas turbine station was supposed to be used as a permanent energy supply source. Thus, the first problem to be solved was synchronizing the unit’s operation with the existing grid,’ mentioned Mr. Lytvynenko in an interview for EnergoReforma.
Vadym stressed that Ukraine is experiencing a shortage of specialists capable of doing calculations for the dynamic stability of the power system, namely, synchronizing new generation with the grid. Therefore, having an in-house specialist played a crucial role in prompt completion of the project within just four months.
Another concern raised by Lytvynenko was solving the problem of prompt modernization of the existing distribution equipment. Most of the components are worn out and need replacement, which makes it barely feasible to connect the cutting-edge generating unit without upgrading the equipment.
The Executive Director pointed out that the ‘core’ of the distribution devices is not a problem itself, as it is available on the market from a range of European manufacturers. However, the delivery typically takes up to six months. Based on the company’s experience, the opportunity to prepare the equipment with the help of manufacturers within the Energo-Plus consortium considerably reduced the delivery time.
Source:
portal interfax
