Natural gas is the cleanest-burning fossil fuel, and the natural gas turbine is the technology that converts it into electricity efficiently. The natural gas turbine market is the dominant segment of the gas turbine market. Natural gas turbines emit about half the CO2 of a coal plant and much less NOx, SOx, and particulate matter. As coal plants retire, the natural gas turbine market is providing reliable, lower-carbon power. The natural gas turbine market for "combined cycle" is the most efficient.

The broader gas turbine market is largely natural gas-fueled. The natural gas turbine market for "dry low emission" (DLE) combustors reduces NOx formation by operating lean (excess air). The natural gas turbine market for "selective catalytic reduction" (SCR) (ammonia injection) reduces NOx further. The natural gas turbine market for "oxidation catalysts" reduce CO and unburned hydrocarbons.

The natural gas turbine market for "fuel gas" compression is required to deliver gas at the correct pressure to the turbine. The natural gas turbine market for "gas" quality monitoring (Wobbe index) is important for stable combustion. The natural gas turbine market for "low BTU" gas (e.g., from landfill or hydrogen blends) requires turbine modifications.

The natural gas turbine market for "high-efficiency" designs include advanced cooling (single-crystal blades, thermal barrier coatings) and improved aerodynamics. The natural gas turbine market for "closed-loop" steam cooling (instead of air) improves efficiency. The natural gas turbine market for "high compression ratios" also boost efficiency.

The natural gas turbine market for "hydrogen" blending is the future. The natural gas turbine market can typically handle 10-20% hydrogen by volume without major modifications. The natural gas turbine market for "100%" hydrogen is being developed (requires changes to combustor, fuel system, and materials). The natural gas turbine market for "pre-mixed" combustion (to avoid flashback) is key.

Looking ahead, the natural gas turbine market will see the deployment of "hydrogen-ready" turbines. The natural gas turbine market for "CCS" (carbon capture) will be added to some plants. The natural gas turbine market for "retrofit" kits to lower emissions will be available. As the gas grid decarbonizes, the natural gas turbine market will transition to hydrogen.

Gain a competitive edge with insightful market reports:

transportation and logistics carbon management system market

cargo shipping market

cargo shipping market size

cargo shipping market trends