GE Vernova Powers Taiwan's Energy Transition with 1.3 GW Hsinta Plant Block, Advancing Coal-to-Gas Conversion and Grid Stability
Key Insights
GE Vernova's 7HA.03 combined cycle equipment has commenced operations at the first block of Taiwan's Hsinta power plant, delivering 1.3 GW to the grid.
This project is a cornerstone of Taiwan's coal-to-gas energy transition, aiming to replace older coal units and significantly reduce carbon emissions by 60%.
The plant integrates advanced gas turbine technology with modular design for enhanced efficiency, grid flexibility, and future hydrogen blending capabilities.
Two additional blocks are scheduled for commissioning by 2026, which will expand the Hsinta plant's total capacity to nearly 4 GW, supporting Taiwan's energy security.
TAIPEI, Taiwan – GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) announced today that the first of three blocks at Taiwan Power Company Nan Bu Construction Organization (TPC NPCO)’s Hsinta power plant has commenced operations, dispatching up to 1.3 gigawatts (GW) of electricity to Taiwan’s national grid. This critical development, powered by GE Vernova’s 7HA.03 combined cycle equipment, represents a significant stride in Taiwan’s strategic coal-to-gas transition, enhancing grid stability and supporting the nation’s ambitious decarbonization targets.
The Hsinta power plant, located in Kaohsiung, is central to Taiwan’s energy policy, which aims to reduce reliance on coal and nuclear power. The newly operational unit is designed to gradually replace existing coal-fired units at the site, with the H-class blocks projected to reduce emissions by approximately 60% compared to the older coal infrastructure. TPC NPCO Director Huang emphasized the plant’s role, stating, “Our Hsinta Power Plant is a key facility in Taiwan's energy transition, aligning with the Renewable Energy Development Act’s policy of transitioning from nuclear power and reducing reliance on coal fuels.” He further acknowledged GE Vernova’s instrumental role in the successful commissioning, which brings less carbon-emitting power to consumers.
The project, executed through a consortium between GE Vernova and local partner CTCI Corporation, incorporates advanced technology. Each block features two high-efficiency GE Vernova 7HA.03 gas turbines paired with H65 hydrogen-cooled generators, two Heat Recovery Steam Generators (HRSG), and one GE Vernova STF-D650 steam turbine with an H65 hydrogen-cooled generator. This modular and flexible configuration allows for rapid startup and efficient adjustment of power output, crucial for balancing Taiwan’s grid and integrating variable renewable energy sources.
Ramesh Singaram, President and CEO, Asia of GE Vernova's Gas Power, highlighted the technological impact: “Our latest gas turbine technology, the 7HA.03, is replacing aged coal-fired units with more efficient and flexible gas-fired combined cycle units, marking a significant step in Taiwan’s carbon emission reduction process.” He reiterated GE Vernova’s commitment to supporting Taiwan’s goal of sourcing up to 50% of its energy mix from natural gas by 2025. The 7HA.03 gas turbine also boasts the capability to burn up to 50% hydrogen by volume when blended with natural gas, offering a pathway for further emissions reductions in the future.
Two additional blocks at the Hsinta plant are slated for phased operation across 2025 and 2026, which will collectively boost the plant’s total capacity to nearly 4 GW. By 2026, GE Vernova-powered gas plants are expected to exceed 10 GW in Taiwan, capable of powering over 23 million homes, underscoring the company’s long-standing contribution to the island’s energy infrastructure since 1961.