`Mpumalanga, South Africa — In a major step toward cleaner and more efficient energy, GE Vernova Inc. and Sasol have completed a successful modernization of the Secunda power plant, one of South Africa’s key industrial energy facilities. The upgrade focuses on two 9E gas turbines at the Mpumalanga-based site, bringing significant environmental and operational gains.
By replacing the plant’s older pre-combustor systems with GE Vernova’s cutting-edge DLN1+ (Dry Low NOx) combustor, supported by a Fuel Gas Module (FGM), the project marks a leap forward in reducing emissions and improving performance—without the need for a complete infrastructure overhaul.
“This project is a powerful example of how we can electrify the world more efficiently and sustainably,” said Joseph Anis, President and CEO of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
“Through advanced combustion technology, we’re helping Sasol meet South Africa’s energy needs while lowering environmental impact.”
Key Results of the Modernization:
✅ Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Emissions Cut by 75%
The DLN technology slashes NOx emissions to well below 25 ppm—an industry-leading achievement.
💧 Zero Water Usage for Emissions Control
The upgrade eliminates the need for water in the emissions process, saving the equivalent of 64 Olympic-sized swimming pools per turbine annually.
🌍 Lower Carbon Emissions
Improved combustion efficiency is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by 10,000 metric tons per turbine per year, helping Sasol meet its sustainability targets.
🛠 Reduced Maintenance and Downtime
Extended maintenance intervals and higher system reliability translate into lower operating costs and increased uptime.
⚡ Greater Energy Security
With improved reliability, the upgraded turbines will deliver more stable power to South Africa’s national grid, supporting broader energy security.
This successful project is more than a technical upgrade—it’s a blueprint for energy modernization across the continent. It demonstrates how strategic retrofitting of existing assets can meet Africa’s growing energy demands while advancing climate goals.
As energy transition becomes a priority across emerging markets, the GE Vernova–Sasol partnership stands as a compelling case study in innovation, impact, and long-term value.
