Gas turbines can be used to generate power, and typically requires natural gas as a fuel. Due to the burning of a fossil fuel, there are negative environmental impacts associated with gas turbines – such as the release of carbon dioxide.
The use of gas turbines for power generation can arise during the peak hours – hours considered high-use times of the day. During these hours, peaker plants help to supply energy to the grid. Gas turbines used as peaker plants often have lower efficiency as they are only used for short periods of time during high use hours.
Overall, gas turbine contribute to power generation but aren’t necessarily a sustainable source based on the fuel used to power them.
Who is involved?
- Professor Xiao Huang (Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)
- Professor Henry M. J. Saari (Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)
- Professor Steen A. Sjolander (Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)