Multimillion-Euro asset integrity project at unique power plant sees EP Produzione team up with EthosEnergy

This plant, with a customized configuration specific to the site, is operated by EP Produzione, the fifth-largest electricity producer in Italy, with an installed capacity of about 4.4 GW.

The 213 MW facility, a former dual fuel (natural gas/diesel-oil) fired power plant now consisting of two open-cycle gas turbines, provides emergency power supply and other essential services to Sicily’s electricity grid. Due to its strategic location, the Grid Authority recently awarded the plant with a continuation of its “Must Run” status and approved the first phase of an asset integrity project.

In 2013, the plant underwent a major renovation when the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) partially converted the facility’s two Frame 9B gas turbines into Frame 9E units. The operating conditions over the years have caused wear and tear to the exhaust system and other components which now require upgrades and modifications.

Graeme Donald, EthosEnergy’s East Hemisphere Vice President of Commercial, said:

“With over 40 years of engineering experience behind us, we thrive on applying our expertise to critical projects that support our customer’s missions. The opportunity to enhance this unique plant was something that excited us from the early moments of our discussions. It’s a testament to the technical ingenuity, hard work, commercial flexibility and dedication of our team that EP Produzione chose EthosEnergy for this significant modernization project.”

The project will progress over the coming months, with the initial focus being integrity improvements, including the replacement of exhaust systems and other auxiliary systems to the first unit.

EthosEnergy’s relationship with EP Produzione is well-established, having previously upgraded and increased the efficiency of the steam turbines at Fiume Santo, EP Produzione’s coal-fired power station on the island of Sardinia.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with a key player in the Italian and European power generation industry, including the wider EPH Group,” said Mr. Donald.

“This project cements our reputation as a flexible, responsive, and punctual independent service provider (ISP) and is further recognition of our engineering prowess and ability to deliver tailored solutions in situations where lead times are critical.”

Alberto Barbieri, Project Development Manager at EP Produzione, said:

“The Trapani Thermoelectric Power Plant plays a crucial role in securing the provision of energy in western Sicily. So, for such an important, time-sensitive project, we are delighted to have brought on board the calibre of engineering support that EthosEnergy provides.

From the word go, we were supported by EthosEnergy team, trying to match our needs. These attributes reflect our own team’s skills, passion, and commitment to ensuring our plants operate at the highest safety, environmental, and reliability standards.”