Bond.az reports that Drax Group plc (DRX) has completed commissioning of Hirwaun Power Station in South Wales. This is the first Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) plant for the company.
The 299MW facility is the first of three such plants Drax is developing in England and Wales. Combined, they will provide about 900MW of capacity.
Revenue will come from peak power generation, system support services, and Capacity Market agreements totaling over £260 million through 2039.
“The successful commissioning of our first OCGT plant is a landmark moment for Drax,” said CEO Will Gardiner.
The plants have a low fixed cost base, with daily management by Siemens Energy. They can start and stop quickly to meet demand peaks.
A clutch mechanism allows the turbine to act as a Synchronous Compensator, providing grid stability services without burning gas.
Gardiner noted initial investments in Battery Energy Storage Systems and ongoing exploration of flexible and renewable energy options.
