The ‘success’ of the combined cycle gas turbine

Over the last 20 years, a new technology for power generation has emerged. The combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) has been installed in increasing numbers throughout the world. Synthesised from traditional gas and steam turbine technology, the CCGT appears to have been at a sufficiently mature stage of development to take advantage of the worldwide shift towards a more market-driven economic climate. Also of importance has been the availability of large quantities of natural gas, coupled with widespread concern at the environmental effects of traditional technologies. In this short paper, the aim is to re-evaluate the conventional wisdom that the CCGT has become so popular solely due to changed market circumstances and cheap natural gas. It is demonstrated that many political and technological factors have had a part to play, particularly in countries such as the UK, where the CCGT has had a large impact. To do this, the history of the CCGT is analysed from three related perspectives. These examine the technology itself and its attributes, the role of the equipment manufacturers, and the involvement of Governments. The conclusions will hopefully lead to some wider debate about the general view of technological development, how it should be handled and by whom.