Aggreko supplies ancillary systems for 43 MW CHP in Romania

Aggreko, a supplier of mobile and modular power, temperature control and energy services, will install ancillary systems for new combined heat and power (CHP) at the CET Arad Power Plant in Romania. The system is intended to increase efficiency and stability at the plant, which is a key provider of hot water and electricity for the district heating scheme and grid at the regional capital Arad City, for the next four years.

The complete system totals 43 MW of power: 21 MW gas generation, with a further 20 MW of thermal energy derived from the plant’s operations, supported by an additional 2MW battery capacity. The system has the potential to cut carbon emissions by up to 45% by capturing and using the plant’s exhaust gas and gas engine jacket water to generate further thermal energy.

Aggreko deployed a flexible system allowing for all or none of the heat to be recovered, and is suited to meet the required mix of thermal and electrical energy throughout seasonal changes and demand spikes. Energy stability across the site is ensured through the integration of battery units, with 2MW of lithium-ion storage supporting the 14 gas generators. Aggreko and CET's contract provides flexible terms to cater to the plant's variable demand, with Aggreko's rental solution also avoiding the need for CAPEX investment across the four-year contract. The best-in-class solution works hand in hand with the existing infrastructure and systems of the plant to meet these modern demands and ensure it operates at maximum efficiency.

The project is designed to increase efficiency for the plant while decreasing CO2 emissions by up to 45%. The company has committed to a 50% reduction in fossil diesel fuels and local air quality emissions by 2030, as well as achieving net-zero in its own operations by the same year. By 2050, Aggreko will also be a net-zero business across all of the services it provides.

The power plant, operated by CET Arad, has been the main source of energy and heat for nearby Arad city for almost 50 years. It was originally built to provide heat and electricity in the 1970s, and has since developed its offer, with a fall in demand for heat meaning it now works primarily to provide electricity for the ancillary services market.