TECHNOLOGY AND MARKET ASSESSMENTS PROJECTS

The following project descriptions were selected to show the breadth of AESC's experience in this area.

Distributed Generation Technology & Market Assessment

As part of AmerenUE’s integrated resource planning effort, AESC identified market applicable DG technologies, gathered performance and cost characteristics, and developed market penetration scenarios for different incentive program designs. As part of the project, AESC surveyed DG incentive programs and developed prototype designs for AmerenUE. DG technologies, fuels and markets were screened for customer economic feasibility and, utilizing customer load and demographic data, market potentials and adoption rates were developed. Results were presented to AmerenUE stakeholders, which included regulators, environmental groups and consumer protection organizations.

Steam Turbine Generator Performance Diagnostics

AESC provided engineering support to diagnose Sithe Energy’s Naval Station combine cycle plant’s 10 MW steam turbine generator’s performance. AESC collected data from Naval Station’s DCS and analyzed the thermodynamic efficiency of the turbine generator. AESC’s recommendations will save Sithe nearly a $100,000 a year in fuel cost and lost revenues from existing SO-4 contracts.

Distillation System & Cooling Tower Additions

AESC provided engineering and design support for installation of additional cooling tower capacity and a packaged water distillation unit at Sithe’s Naval Station combine cycle plant. These systems will enhance the plant’s performance and lower operating costs while maintaining the plant’s qualified facility status. AESC provided the thermo hydraulic analysis and equipment sizing as well as engineering design support and construction management for the project.

Evaluation of Self-Generation for Energy Efficiency Programs

Under a contract with the California Board of Energy Efficiency (CBEE), AESC evaluated self-generation alternatives as a potential component of future California energy efficiency programs. Self-generation technologies evaluated included fuel cells, renewable fuel and conventional power plant technologies. Policy, energy balance and economic impacts were analyzed and reported. Recommendations to the CBEE included program designs for self-generation, eligible self-generation technologies and targeted customer classes and applications.

Hong Kong Renewal Energy Study

AESC was part of a team of experts that studied the application of renewable energy systems in Hong Kong. AESC provided expertise in renewable fueled power generation including fuel cells. The study was funded by the Hong Kong government and Camp Dresser McGee is the prime contractor.

PEM Fuel Cell Technology and Market Assessment

Under a contract with Ticona Celanese, AESC developed current state of the technology and market forecasts for stationary Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell technologies. Domestic and international PEM developers were identified. Engineered polymer applications targeted within the PEM fuel cell plants along with estimated market value resulting from improved performance, reliability or reduced cost.

Strategic Technology Assessment

AESC performed a broad scoping study that identified key technologies that will have great impact on San Diego Gas and Electric’s (SDG&E) utility business. Technologies screened included distributed generation, broadband & wireless telecommunications, advanced large gas turbines, flexible AC transmission and hybrid vehicles. Results were presented to SDG&E board of directors for approval of technology business subsidiary.

Survey of Emission Control Technologies for Gas Turbines and Reciprocating Engines

AESC assisted Resource Catalysts / Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) with development of a database of nationwide air quality permitting and emissions control requirements for gas turbines and natural gas-fired and diesel reciprocating engines. Information regarding permitting and emissions control requirements was gathered through a nation wide telephone survey of each air quality control district within in each state.