Co-generation system to dramatically cut University of Oregon’s energy use

by Lindsey O'Brien. Daily Journal of Commerce Published: November 7th, 2011

http://djcoregon.com/news/2011/11/07/co-generation-system-to-dramatically-cut-university-of-oregonsenergy-

use/

The University of Oregon is getting ready to come online with its co-generation system.

As part of a $110 million renovation of its Central Power Station, the university is installing a co-generation

system that will allow for simultaneous power generation and steam production from the same fuel energy

input, minimizing energy waste and improving power delivery.

“We’re really going to amazingly reduce our carbon footprint,” said Randy Collins, utilities operations

supervisor for the university. “The way we’re building this plant, we’re going to be getting so much more out of

every bit of energy we bring in…and we’re going to be far more self-reliant.”

The co-generation system includes a boiler, a steam turbine generator, combustion air units, a reverse osmosis

system, make-up water tanks, air handling units and electrical distribution gear, including a unit substation.

The university selected Heery International to provide commissioning and operator training services for the

second phase Central Power Station renovation and is considering sending all operators and supervisors for an

additional week-long training at the facility where the new gas turbine is being manufactured.

The system’s first firing is expected in April or May, according to Collins.

Lotusworks, a sub-consultant on the project, will provide the staff with integrated systems training, including

specialized knowledge and training to operate the plant as a whole. Turner Construction is the renovation’s

overall construction manager and general contractor.

Once the project is complete, the plant will be capable of generating enough power to meet approximately three

quarters of the campus demand, as well as allow critical research lab buildings to continue operating during

extended utility power outages.

Collins expects the project to reduce outages from 10 to 12 occurrences per year to one or two – and even

those will be planned. “If we see our entire campus go dark (after the renovation), it’s probably because entire state of Oregon is in

the dark,” he said.

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