Launched on the sidelines of COP29, GE Vernova’s LM6000VELOX package is expected to become its first aeroderivative gas turbine solution to operate on 100 % renewable hydrogen, enabling power generation with low or zero CO2 emissions. GE has been selected as preferred turbine supplier for the Whyalla hydrogen power plant, in the Upper Spencer Gulf, South Australia, as part of the S. Australian government’s Hydrogen Jobs Plan, and is intended to provide crucial firming capacity to support energy transition in the State
GE has secured an order with ATCO Australia for four of its LM6000VELOX units with commissioning expected in early 2026. They will be powered by renewable sourced hydrogen generated at the Whyalla complex, helping to produce zero CO2 at the gas turbine exhaust during operation. The site will include one of the world’s largest hydrogen production and storage plants. When completed, the facility will utilise South Australia’s surplus renewable energy, generated by large-scale wind and solar farms, to produce the renewable hydrogen.
Whyalla power plant is to be rated at a capacity of up to 200 MW to help meet electricity during periods when renewable energy sources are not available or are not meeting full demand.
“With more than 70 % of energy generated from renewable resources, South Australia is set to become a global leader in producing and utilising renewable hydrogen and we are delighted to be part of this project that can unlock decarbonisation opportunities,” said John Ivulich, CEO and Country chair of ATCO Australia.
