Power plant with CO₂capture and compression

摘要

CO2 compression is a main step in carbon capture and storage, which is essential to control global warming. CO2 compressors are powered by electric motors, which increase operational flexibility but require much energy leading to additional expenses, power and efficiency losses. A method is provided for optimized operation of a plant including a power generation unit with a CO2 capture system and compressor with minimum losses during normal operation, allowing flexible part load. The method allows steam from the power unit to drive a steam turbine, which drives the CO2 compressor via an engaged overrunning clutch if a sufficient amount of steam is available from the power unit, and to drive it by the generator, which is used as motor when insufficient steam is available from the power unit. When no or insufficient steam is available the clutch is disengaged and the steam turbine may be at standstill or idling.

主权项

1. A power plant comprising a power unit with a CO2 capture system and a CO2 compressor arranged downstream of the CO2 capture system, and a steam turbine powered by a live steam line fed by the power unit, the steam turbine engageably connected to a generator and the CO2 compressor via an overrunning clutch, wherein the generator is connectable to a power grid to deliver power to the grid and operable as a motor, and wherein the generator is connected to the CO2 compressor with no interposed coupling.