Power Gen 2006: Electric utilities go digital

Staff -- Control Engineering, 1/1/2007

Growing popularity of digital plant architecture in the electric utility industry is reflected in contracts announced by Emerson Process Management at Power Gen 2006. Orders for seven such systems slated for installation at new U.S. coal-fired power plants were received by the company in 2006. The information was released at Power Gen 2006 held Nov. 28-30, 2006, in Orlando.

The plants, all expected to go into commercial operation within five years, represent an additional 5,505 MW of new generating capacity that will help U.S. utilities satisfy growing electricity demand. These projects add to Emerson's existing installed base controlling more than 35% of all electricity generated in the U.S., according to the company's estimates. Emerson said it still anticipates receiving additional new plant awards before the end of the year.

"Emerson's PlantWeb digital plant architecture has been proven across a number of industries to lower installation costs, ensure a fast startup, and improve ongoing plant operations and maintenance," says Bob Yeager, president of the power and water solutions division at Emerson. "There is growing recognition among power producers that these technologies translate into tangible economic and operational advantages."

According to Emerson, the system helps new plants lower wiring costs and streamline device installation, communications verification, and troubleshooting, thereby reducing startup and commissioning costs.

Said Yeager, “Laying the right foundation is crucial for utilities navigating this ever-changing landscape. More and more, we are working upfront in a collaborative environment with utilities and their architect-engineering firms as they move toward implementing a flexible, long-term automation strategy.” www.emersonprocess-powerwater.com