GE Vernova has taken a bold step into the future of energy with its unveiling of a 100% hydrogen-ready aeroderivative gas turbine solution, the LM6000VELOX package. This innovative technology will be prominently featured at the Whyalla hydrogen power plant in South Australia, set to be commissioned in early 2026. This marks a watershed moment in the energy landscape, as it represents the first instance of a GE Vernova power plant operating at a commercial scale on aeroderivative gas turbine technology capable of running entirely on hydrogen.
The announcement, made during COP29 in Azerbaijan, comes hand-in-hand with a partnership deal with ATCO Australia and BOC, a subsidiary of Linde. The Whyalla complex will house four LM6000VELOX units, contributing to a 200-MW peaking power station that is part of a broader hydrogen initiative. This initiative includes a 250-MW electrolyzer and a 100-ton hydrogen facility, all powered by South Australia’s surplus renewable energy from wind and solar farms. This is a prime example of how renewable energy can be harnessed and stored for future use, showcasing a sustainable approach to energy generation.
The launch of this hydrogen-ready turbine is significant not just as a product release but as a signal of GE Vernova’s commitment to decarbonization and electrification. Since spinning off from General Electric in April 2024, GE Vernova has positioned itself as a leader in the energy transition, focusing on innovative solutions that blend traditional power generation with renewable technologies. The company has already made strides with its HA-class turbines, capable of burning up to 50% hydrogen by volume, and is now pushing toward a full 100% hydrogen capability for its heavy-duty platform by 2030.
The LM6000, at the heart of the LM6000VELOX package, has a storied history dating back to its introduction in 1988, with over 1,200 units installed across 60 countries. This new iteration not only represents a technological leap but also aligns with global trends toward cleaner energy. As Midhat Mirabi, managing director of Aeroderivatives New Units at GE Vernova, points out, the company has rigorously tested the combustion of hydrogen at various blends, paving the way for this groundbreaking development.
The implications of running an aeroderivative turbine on 100% hydrogen are profound. While the overall engine output may not see drastic changes, operational adjustments will be necessary, particularly concerning start/stop capabilities. The introduction of water injection and the unique properties of hydrogen will also necessitate careful consideration of maintenance practices. However, GE Vernova has taken strides to ensure safety and reliability, incorporating advanced features such as nitrogen purge systems and hydrogen fire detection.
As South Australia pushes toward its ambitious goal of achieving 100% net renewable energy by 2027, the Whyalla hydrogen facility is set to play a crucial role in providing firming services to stabilize the grid. With wind and solar currently making up a combined 75% of the state’s power generation, the introduction of hydrogen-fueled gas turbines will be essential in maintaining grid reliability amid increasing renewable penetration.
The launch of the LM6000VELOX package signals a pivotal moment not only for GE Vernova but also for the energy sector as a whole. It highlights the potential of hydrogen as a viable fuel source and underscores the importance of innovative technologies in the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, developments like this one could reshape the energy landscape, making hydrogen a cornerstone of our power generation strategy.
