GE has announced that the 150 megawatts (MW) expansion of the Termoyopal Power Plant has safely and successfully achieved the start of commercial operation using three GE’s LM6000 aero-derivative gas turbines.
The inauguration of the expansion and modernization of the natural gas-fired power plant that included two pre-existing units providing a total of 50 MW and three new-generation units—each with a capacity of 50 MW—took place in the presence of President of Colombia Iván Duque, Vice-President of Colombia, Martha Lucía Ramírez; the Minister of Mines and Energy, Diego Mesa; the Vice Minister of Energy, Miguel Lotero and CEO of Termoyopal, Luis Alberto Páez. The newly expanded units are expected to increase the total power plant’s output through the additional 150 MW and improve the efficiency and flexibility needed to support renewables growth in the country and bolster its ability to respond to possible severe weather events.
“This plant plays a crucial role in supporting the diversification of energy sources” commented the President of Colombia Iván Duque during the inauguration. “Termoyopal power generation represents 2 percent of the national power, and 10% of the national thermal power. This shows the relevance of the Termoyopal plant and its impact on our energy system transformation. Our national goals are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050”.
“These new units allow Termoyopal to increase its installed capacity up to 200 MW, which will be key to continue supporting a broader generation capacity and grid that provides reliable electric power service to all Colombians, especially in times of little rain,” said Vice Minister Miguel Lotero.