Demonstration shows methanol reduces gas turbine emissions by 80%

In a demonstration delivered through Net Zero Technology Centre’s (NZTC) Alternative Fuel for Gas Turbines project, Siemens Energy have successfully operated an SGT-A35 gas turbine on methanol.

The SGT-A35 was introduced by Rolls-Royce in the 1970s to providing power generation and mechanical drive applications for the oil and gas industry.

The demonstration took place at an Aberdeen facility owned by RWG,  specialists in gas turbine maintenance, repair and overhaul. The facility was retrofitted specifically for the pilot.

Siemens Energy used 3D printing techniques to manufacture the components required for methanol fuel conversion, although this represented no more than what the company refer to as ‘minor modifications’. 

In a world first,  Siemens Energy demonstrating a less powerful SGT-A20 turbine running on bio-methanol in 2023, showing that CO2 emissions could be reduced by up to 75% when compared to conventional fuels. The latest demonstration test showed a decrease in NOx of up to 80%.

Charlie Booth, Project Manager, NZTC said: ‘This is a key milestone and great result for the Alternative Fuel Gas Turbine project, which was only possible through outstanding collaboration with government and industry. Methanol’s unique properties make it an exceptional choice as a retrofittable, low-carbon alternative fuel and it is great that we are able to showcase the opportunity that exists in adapting existing infrastructure to meet our net zero targets and energy needs. I’d like to express my thanks to all the project participants that made this possible.

Darren Davidson, Vice President Siemens Energy UK&I, said: ‘This is another significant step as we transition to a clean energy future in the North Sea. The turbine’s successful operation on methanol marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards sustainable energy. This achievement not only highlights the versatility and adaptability of our turbines but also underscores the practical steps we can take to reduce CO2 emissions in difficult to decarbonise industries. I’m proud of our team’s role, working in partnership, to achieve this.’

The Alternative Fuel for Gas Turbines project is one of seven such schemes under NZTC’s Net Zero Technology Transition Programme. The programme is funded with £16.5 million from the Scottish Government’s Energy Transition Fund and industry matched funding to transform the North Sea energy system.