UTE Santa Cruz generates energy for the first time

Precisely at 1:49 a.m. last December 10, the first energy synchronization generated by Santa Cruz TPP to the National Interconnected System (SIN) took place, marking the starting of operations after the closing of the combined cycle, which is the purpose of the intervention for which the Santa Cruz Consortium was commissioned. This is an important milestone of the project, which is getting closer to its total delivery to the client, Furnas.

In the next two weeks, commissioning activities should enable the load to be increased to its rated power of approximately 175MW. During the ramp-up, which gradually takes place, parameter measurements and tests shall be carried out to ensure the reliability of the operation, thus definitively putting it into commercial activity.

Santa Cruz Consortium, responsible for the works, is formed by OECI and Tenenge. It has been commissioned by Furnas to transform Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Plant, located in the Industrial District of Santa Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, to perform the closing of the Plant’s combined cycle, allowing it to operate using the steam produced in the boilers and is fed to the turbogenerator, transforming it into electric energy. The contract included engineering services, civil works, decommissioning, electromechanical assembly, supply of materials, equipment and systems, training, commissioning, and assisted operation.

Santa Cruz Thermal Power Plant had in its original configuration four generating units composed of boiler, turbine and generator, being units 1 and 2 of 82 MW, and units 3 and 4 of 218 MW, totaling an installed capacity of 600 MW, operating in Rankine cycle (which converts the heat produced in the boiler into generation). These units have been deactivated. Currently the plant operates with two natural gas powered turbogenerators, with a total power output of 350 MW. After the completion of the work, UTE Santa Cruz shall have a nominal installed capacity of 507 MW.