Power plant design and management for unit cycling, CCC/295

ABSTRACT

As intermittent renewables increase their share of electricity generation, coal-fired units are being called upon to operate in cycling modes more frequently, as opposed to the baseload mode for which many were designed. More frequent and severe cycling can exacerbate damage through a variety of mechanisms.

In this study, different modes of cyclic operation of coal-fired plants and strategies for managing the negative impacts are identified. Options include new operating practices, use of advanced materials, suitable design features, power plant preservation during standby and installation of improved control systems. Such measures can improve unit heat rates and reduce the number of forced outages in existing fossil fuel-fired plants as well as new builds.

This study also identifies potential trade-offs associated with technology selection for enhanced flexibility. Examples from Germany, India, Poland and USA are given.