Turbines in America are set for imminent shutdown.
Yakutsk GRES-2, a vital power plant in Yakutia, Russia, is undergoing a significant transformation as it phases out American-made GE LM6000 gas turbines in favour of Russian-made alternatives. This change is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependency on foreign technology and mitigate sanctions risks.
Current Situation:
The shift has been necessitated by the increasing difficulty in obtaining maintenance and spare parts from the U.S., leading to reduced capacity and impacting electricity output, particularly during peak winter months when demand is high.
Future Plans:
Russian manufacturers are ramping up production of advanced gas turbines to replace the LM6000 units. The replacement process is being carried out in phases to ensure grid stability and continuous power supply. Yakutsk GRES-2 is also undergoing modernization to optimize performance with the new turbines.
Impact on Electricity Prices and Supply:
In the short term, the transition has led to some increases in electricity prices due to constrained supply and the costs of replacement technologies. However, once domestic turbines are fully operational, the plant is expected to restore or improve generation capacity, leading to more stable and potentially lower prices by reducing reliance on expensive imported fuels and maintenance.
Critical Power Situation:
The power situation in Yakutia's Central Energy Region is critical, with a deficit of 116 MW from 2023. The rapid growth in energy demand, the nearing end of lifespan for the LM6000 units, and the worsening of their condition under sanctions have all contributed to this critical situation.
Decisions and Tenders:
In February 2024, no decisions had been made regarding the shutdown of the second power block of Yakutsk GRES-2. However, the "Yakutsk GRES-2" company announced a tender for the supply and installation of two Russian-made EGES-25PA gas turbine units, worth 1.2 billion rubles, to replace the American ones.
Upcoming Completion:
The second phase of Yakutsk GRES-2 is scheduled to be completed by 2025, with a projected electrical capacity of 160.4 MW. This expansion is expected to further alleviate the power deficit in the region.
In a 2016 report by "Yakutia.Info", it was warned that installing American gas turbines at Yakutsk GRES-2 would be costly and less efficient compared to Russian-made alternatives. As Yakutsk GRES-2 transitions away from American turbines, it is expected to enhance regional energy independence and protect the local grid from geopolitical supply risks.
The energy sector in Yakutia moves towards increased regional autonomy as Yakutsk GRES-2 phases out American finance-dependent gas turbines, opting for locally manufacturing Russian energy solutions. This strategic shift will also optimize the plant's technology efficiency and secure the grid amid geopolitical circumstances.
