Construction World September 2019

tariff applicable, companies’ energy savings can pay off such an installation within two to three years. “The value of this investment is clear when you consider that these systems have an expected lifespan of 20 to 30 years,” he says. “A well-maintained industrial steam turbine is also very reliable, with a high operational availability of about 98%.” Magro highlights that the application of steam turbines is not limited to large operations. The range of sizes offered by Zest WEG Group puts this technology within the grasp of even small and medium-sized enterprises. The rising price of electricity is making this option increasingly attractive, as the cost of energy steadily erodes the bottom line. “In fact, in a number of

countries around the world, businesses are generating electricity not just to save on operational costs but to create an added revenue stream,” he says. “The companies are constantly searching for improving the efficiency of their operations, so exporting power to the national grid is a valuable way to raise their earnings.” In most countries, electricity demand has been growing, creating a robust market that spurs their investment in cogeneration capacity. “This is where the potential lies in South Africa, as the country tries to stabilise and grow its power supply,” he says. “There is the immediate possibility for sugar producers to contribute to solving this challenge – and we can be sure that many other sectors will also come on board.” 

High pressure turbine rotor.

Left: Two 50 MW steam turbo generator sets. Right: Steam turbine generator right after installation and commissioning.

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2019