Coal-to-Hydrogen conversion feasibility study

Key challenges

To provide a high-level review that addressed the key concerns for the plant owners in evaluating the advantages and disadvantages for extending the life of 120MW Ventanas Unit 1 by converting it from coal to hydrogen.

RJM Solution

RJM carried out a boiler performance assessment that considered combustion air flows, fuel flows, flue gas flows and furnace heat input and a NOx emissions evaluation looking at achieving either 50 mg/Nm3 or 100mg/Nm3 with SOx at 200mg/Nm3. This NOx assessment also looked at Burner Zone Heat Release rates; the amount of FGR required to achieve the desired NOx limit and a review of the existing FGR fans’ performance. A review of hydrogen burner design and suitable igniters was also included. The report also focused on safety and included a careful review in accordance with international standards and experience, as hydrogen is an extremely flammable gas. A Risk Register also recorded all the Technical, Commercial and Safety project risks, classified by likelihood and consequence.

Results

RJM’s feasibility study enabled the unit’s owners to make an informed decision about the future direction of the plant.