GE, Schlumberger Sign Carbon Alliance Pact
GE Energy has signed a carbon sequestration alliance agreement with Schlumberger Carbon Services to accelerate the use of "cleaner coal" technology. The agreement aligns GE's experience in integrated gasification combined-cycle (IGCC) systems with proven carbon capture capabilities and Schlumberger's geologic storage expertise and capabilities for site selection, characterization, and qualification.
GE is a leader in the development and application of IGCC technology, while Schlumberger provides unique expertise, technology, and project management for the storage of carbon dioxide.
"This is a first-of-its-kind alliance between leaders in IGCC technology and CO2 storage to accelerate the commercial development and deployment of cleaner coal power and encourage the proper regulatory framework," said John Lavelle, president of GE Energy's gasification business.
"GE can design and supply an IGCC plant with carbon capture today, or as a retrofit. Under this new arrangement, our two companies will align the technical needs of capture and storage for high operability and work in concert to offer customers a cost-effective solution that will provide a complete answer," Lavelle added.
While the new arrangement provides technical and commercial expertise for moving forward with coal-based power generation, clear regulations and policies are needed for large-scale implementation.
The IGCC gasification process converts coal and other heavy fuels into a high-value fuel, known as synthesis gas or syngas. The syngas is cleaned and then used in efficient combined-cycle systems to generate electricity.