Technology Characterizations for Natural Gas-Fired Distributed Generation Systems, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

ANTARES led a team in the development of performance and cost characteristics for the following classes of natural gas-fired distributed generation technologies: 1) Reciprocating Engine Generator Sets (50 kW to 3 MW); 2) Industrial Gas Turbine Generator Sets (500 kW to 40 MW); 3) Microturbines (25 to 500 kW); 4) Fuel Cells; 5) Back-pressure Steam Turbines; and 6) Stirling Engines. These systems were analyzed in combined heat and power applications. These "Technology Characterizations" are used by energy analysts to project impacts of policy and technology on energy-use patterns in the United States. They also serve as technology briefs for anyone interested in learning about these technologies.

The Technology Characterizations explain how each technology works, the types and configurations of common applications, capacities, and general system arrangements. The installed cost is given for a range of available capacities. The duty cycles are described along with thermal and electrical efficiencies and environmental (emission) performance. Included in each Characterization is a discussion of the key research and development areas expected over the next several decades. Projections of performance and cost were made for the years 2010, 2020, and 2030 and 2050.

These Technology Characterizations can be located on NREL's website starting in June 2003 at http://www.nrel.gov.