Combined Cycle Equipment Standardization: How Much Is Too Much?

Many electric utilities in the United States are involved with construction of both combined cycle and combustion turbine generation. These utilities and the industry, as a whole, have the opportunity to carefully examine methods of equipment optimization when developing these new power stations. The Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) anticipates installing at least three large combined cycle units and several smaller aero-derivative combustion turbine units within the next 15 years. As a generation owner and operator, FMPA management is examining lessons learned by other utilities, original equipment manufacturers and consulting engineers to develop a cost-effective approach to equipment standardization. This evaluation focuses on design, equipment procurement, as well as long-term operation and maintenance requirements.