SG100 closing in on commercial operation
“As we move the SG100 closer to commercialisation, we are continuing with a series of runs enabling us to integrate and optimise the plant’s operation. And our most recent runs in May, June and early July were the best yet,” says Laurence Sharrock, Standard Gas’ Chief Operating Officer.
Commenting on the July run, Standard Gas Advisory Board member, David Hurren, a former CEO of Air Liquide Biogas Solutions UK, and recently President of the British Compressed Gases Associations, notes: “It’s been fascinating to watch the journey of this first-of-a-kind plant over the past few years. From the early stages of construction, through design evolution, debugging and commissioning, to the point where today’s conversations are increasingly about operations, optimisation and future deployment. These projects are never straightforward. They demand technical expertise, resilience, patience, and a willingness to learn as you go.”
A key aspect in proving any new technology is independent assessment and for the SG100 this is being provided by international engineering specialist, DNV. Laurence says DNV’s verdict on the June run, contained in an extensive report, was particularly pleasing. “Based on the evidence of a DNV engineer present during the June run, the conclusions are very encouraging.”
DNV’s report states: “The SG technology demonstrates credible functionality with a clear pathway to commercialisation,” adding that it is “impressed with the professionalism of the plant operational team and that all involved were clearly committed to the success of the project.”
“Each run gives us a wealth of data that includes how each element of the plant is performing and the input and output of the process,” says Laurence. “Essential learnings from each run help us understand how best to both control and adjust different elements and features of the SG100 and iron out the operating and design wrinkles that are part and parcel of a first-of-a-kind technology. Step-by-step and run-by-run we are moving closer to safe, efficient, and decarbonising commercial production of clean gas and energy from waste.”
Praising the dedication of the SG100’s operations team, which has increased its collective expertise with every run, Standard Gas CEO David Whitmarsh says, “We were advised that getting a new first-of-a-kind plant from design to commercialisation would require patience and perseverance, from us and from our partners. I’m particularly proud of our team overseeing this process and currently optimising plant operation. Our world has critical energy and waste challenges, and Standard Gas is bringing to market a decarbonising solution that will help meet them both.”
Waste entering the SG100
Gas being used during the run