Fortescue orders GE gas turbines

Wednesday, 20 July, 2011 - 11:33

International energy and electronics giant GE has signed a deal with Fortescue Metals Group to provide two dual fuel gas turbines for its new 120 megawatt power facility at the Solomon iron ore mine.

The project is part of Fortescue's three year, $US8.4 billion Pilbara expansion program.

GE said its gas turbines enable lower fuel consumption per unit of power output than competitive technologies, which will enable Fortescue to rapidly develop Solomon.

"In order to rapidly develop our Solomon Hub and enable secure, low-cost production of iron ore for years to come, we require a highly reliable, highly efficient power plant," Fortescue director of development Peter Meurs said.

"Backed by its proven technology, expertise and customer focus, the GE team was very responsive in developing a fast-track solution which meets the demanding requirements of our Solomon Hub."

The turbines will be shipped from Houston, Texas in December and installed on site in March 2012.

The power plant is scheduled to begin operation in the third quarter of 2012.

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