Independent solutions for complex energy issues
With our own varied 34 GW energy portfolio, we understand the challenges that owners and operators of power generation and infrastructure assets face in volatile energy markets.
We have the know how to meet the challenges, through our in-house multi-disciplinary teams of world-class engineers, specialists and scientists -- collectively known as Energy Services, who deliver tailored solutions for complex energy issues.
Energy Services brings together over 1200 experts, based in Germany and the UK to focus on building, maintaining and optimizing generation and distribution assets, for a growing international client base.
Independent expertise saves €Ks for our clients
Our teams offer a wide range of independent consultancy and engineering services for all types of power generation assets, power grids, and gas infrastructures. Independent, authoritative advice is the cornerstone offering of Energy Services – to ensure quality and avoid additional costs for our clients during maintenance periods and plant projects.
“World class technical experience of plant design, maintenance and operation, puts us in a strong position to work with our clients and constructively challenge their reliance on the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM)” explains Paul Jeffreys, Head of Gas Turbine Solutions.
“For example, during a major inspection for one client in the UK, a 400 MW CCGT power plant, the OEM rejected two key gas turbine components as being damaged beyond repair. The damaged sections were outside current limits for repair and the OEM proposed replacement with new components. We developed and proposed a repair procedure rather than replacement and responded quickly by bringing our in-house scanning equipment on site to map the precise 3D geometry of the components.“
Digitalized blue light geometric scanning allows complex surfaces to be captured accurately.
Scanned geometry is further developed to create engineering models and drawings at our UK Technology Centre.
“Under our supervision, the OEM repaired the damaged components following our procedure. We witnessed all critical stages of the repair work and showed that final finished dimensions were acceptable by comparing our original scans with new scans following repair.
The OEM was reassured that our quality controls would meet their exacting standards and ensure critical dimensions were maintained. Repair of the components saved our client €690,000 compared to replacement, with no impact on their outage timescales.
Reducing OEM dependence
Independence has the potential to minimize the cost of planned maintenance. However, the concern of not having a contractual relationship with the OEM presents a significant barrier in most companies and organizations.
A reasonable goal is a re-negotiation: to work with the OEM as the primary supplier but no longer as the risk manager of the asset.
“Our recommendation is to adopt an incremental approach towards OEM independence that balances risk whilst delivering maximum value” adds Paul.
This is the approach adopted internally within the Uniper Generation business, backed by Energy Services and our specialist GT capability to deliver cost savings across our fleet.
