Elsaco Electronic and Clarke Energy are deploying cogeneration projects to replace aging equipment in the district heating networks of two Romanian cities, Arad and Constanța.
Using Jenbacher J920 FleXtra engines, the new facilities will deliver a combined 85 MW electrical and 80 MW thermal power, with an anticipated 30% reduction in primary fuel consumption.
These projects, financed by the European Union, are part of Romania’s national strategy to modernize its energy infrastructure.
The use of these engines marks a first in the country, and prepares facilities for the future use of hydrogen and biomethane mixtures.
This approach aims to improve network efficiency while reducing operating costs and emissions.
Economic and industrial implications
Modernizing the energy infrastructure in these cities should generate substantial savings in operating costs.
Current systems, based on steam turbines from the 1960s, are showing signs of obsolescence and inefficiency, making these renovations crucial to ensuring a stable, cost-effective energy supply.
By integrating cogeneration solutions, these projects are helping to strengthen the resilience of urban energy networks, while paving the way for the adoption of more advanced technologies in the near future.
The flexibility offered by the new engines means they can be adapted to future changes in the energy mix, notably with the integration of alternative fuels.
Outlook for Romania’s energy sector
These projects illustrate the growing trend in Romania to modernize and diversify its energy sources, particularly in the decentralized generation sector.
By modernizing cogeneration plants, the country is positioning itself to meet future energy challenges, while reducing its dependence on obsolete technologies.
The implementation of these initiatives could serve as a model for other similar projects in the region, encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in energy production.
This move towards more flexible and efficient infrastructures is essential to meet market demands and energy performance expectations.
