NetPower Industrial Scale Solution Study

Objective

To evaluate and develop an industrial-scale NET Power Allam Cycle power generation system, focusing on defining use cases, comparing plant scales, and generating techno-economic insights for future implementation.

Project Scope

The study focused on:

1. Defining use cases and establishing a process simulation and study basis for a 150MW Combined Turbine Generator (CTG) NET Power cycle.
2. Conducting trade-off analyses between industrial and utility-scale designs to identify the optimal plant scale.
3. Evaluating the key design uncertainties and CAPEX implications for an AACE Class 4 estimate.
4. Developing technical designs to address oxygen supply, recuperator configurations and heat exchanger optimisations.

Findings & Recommendations

Findings

• Design Optimisation: The cryogenic air separation unit (ASU) was identified as the most efficient method for delivering high-purity oxygen, with optimisation potential in cooling integration and N2 chilling.
• Water Separation Systems: A simplified cooler and separator was chosen for initial designs due to its cost-effectiveness, though further vendor engagement is recommended.
• CAPEX Insights: The estimated first-of-a-kind (FOAK) EPC cost is approximately within the range of $325-375MM USD, with a potential reduction of around 5-10% as the technology matures.
• Simulation Results: Process efficiency can improve by optimising recuperator configurations, reducing cooling demands and considering alternative heat pump technologies.

Recommendations

1. Focus on optimizing the recuperator heat exchanger design to balance efficiency and CAPEX.
2. Advance detailed design studies for the ASU cooling integration to reduce energy consumption.
3. Incorporate further simulations and vendor feedback in Phase 2 to refine designs and validate assumptions.
4. Evaluate long-term cost-saving strategies for nth-of-a-kind (NOAK) deployments.