Fortescue Metals Group to use GE Energy’s gas turbine technology at new plant

Fortescue Metals Group Ltd. (Fortescue) said it will use GE’s LM6000-PF aeroderivative gas turbine technology at its new Solomon 1 plant. The new plant is part of Fortescue’s three-year expansion program in Western Australia. Peter Meurs, director of development for Fortescue said, “In order to rapidly develop our Solomon Hub and enable secure, low-cost production of iron ore for years to come, we require a highly reliable, highly efficient power plant.” Under the agreement, GE will supply two LM6000-PF dual fuel gas turbine packages to be used in Fortescue’s new 120-megawatt (MW) power plant. The LM600-PF technology is a dry low emissions technology which reportedly can deliver more than 40MW with more than 40% efficiency. Tim Rourke, CEO of GE Energy, Australia and New Zealand, said the LM6000-PF aeroderivative technology is the best choice for mining applications such as Fortescue’s, where high reliability, operational flexibility and the ability to respond to large load swings of the mine, while still maintaining grid stability, are essential to the success of plant operations. (July 20, 2011)