GE Vernova, IHI, Sembcorp Discuss Retrofit of Singapore Power Plant

GE Vernova’s Gas Power business, Sembcorp Industries, and IHI Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperatively explore the potential of retrofitting Sembcorp’s Sakra power plant in Singapore with ammonia-firing technology.

“Sembcorp Cogen at Sakra was Singapore’s largest and most efficient cogeneration plant when it was commissioned in 2001,” said Koh Chiap Khiong, CEO, Singapore & Southeast Asia, Sembcorp Industries. “We are now taking the next step to support decarbonization efforts through the potential retrofitting of the power plant with ammonia-firing capabilities.”

Sembcorp's Sakra power plant in Singapore; Image Credits: Sembcorp Industries

The joint effort is an extension of a 2022 MoU between Sembcorp and IHI to explore decarbonization for the power and industrial sector, specifically ammonia direct combustion systems. The MoU additionally builds on an agreement between IHI and GE Vernova to develop a retrofittable, 100% ammonia-capable combustion system compatible with GE Vernova turbine models.

“IHI is developing ammonia combustion technologies and infrastructure solutions that can be safely retrofitted to existing power generation facilities, thereby establishing reductions in carbon emissions,” said Jun Kobayashi, Board Director, Managing Executive Officer, IHI Corporation. “The ability to retrofit such technologies also provides decarbonization pathways that future-proof existing investments in power generation.”

The project aims to assist Sembcorp in generating low-carbon energy from current power plant assets and supports Singapore’s efforts to diversify the power sector. As a result of the retrofit project, industry confidence for the development of an ammonia value chain in Singapore is expected to rise.

“GE Vernova will bring its experience in engineering and manufacturing gas turbine combustors and balance of plant systems,” said Ramesh Singaram, President and CEO of GE Gas Power Asia. “We remain committed to supporting the advancement of the region’s energy goals, working alongside partners such as Sembcorp and IHI Corporation. We hope that this collaboration will pave the way for power plant operators to adopt carbon-free combustion fuels such as ammonia in GE gas turbines, to contribute toward lowering carbon emissions in the power sector in Asia and globally.”