The ability to efficiently burn both LPG and LFO was a major factor in selecting the Wärtsilä LG engines for this project. Once up and running, the hybrid solution will add operational flexibility and will serve to improve the existing grid stability on the island.
The order, booked in June 2020, is Wärtsilä’s first engine/hybrid power plant sale stipulation the first installation of the company’s LG engines, capable of burning both liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and light fuel oil (LFO). The hybrid plant is contractually bound to be fully operational plant by spring 2022.
“The Wärtsilä plant will provide much needed additional baseload capacity to the Island’s electricity supply. It will improve the system’s reliability, while giving us additional fuel and operational flexibility that will lower overall operating costs and reduce the dependence on diesel oil,” explained Lawrence Kupfer, CEO, USVI Water and Power Authority.
The four LG engines will be fuelled by a cleaner burning fuel which will lead to reduced air emissions and enhanced overall air quality. “There is no adverse impact to land, water or the surrounding areas,” Kupfer stressed.
Wärtsilä’s business development manager, Edmund Phillips, said “this project showcases our unique technological capabilities in combining an engine power plant and energy storage, and our commitment to drive the energy transition towards low carbon systems.”
The Finish OEM has previously supplied and installed a 21 MW power plant running primarily on propane gas to WAPA, the main utility of the US Virgin Islands.