States clamp down on power exports

Anil Sasi
New Delhi, Dec. 25
Reforms in the power sector remain stymied though the path-breaking Electricity Act, 2003 promised to usher in a free market as most States are stubbornly refusing to play ball.
A number of State governments are using all possible means to restrict supply of power outside their boundaries. Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Orissa and Rajasthan have issued orders invoking emergency provisions under the Electricity Act to stymie open access, which goes against the very spirit of the reformist legislation.
The provision of open access enables power generators to cherry-pick consumers while allowing users to migrate to power suppliers of their choice.
A majority of these States have issued restrictive orders this year to prevent captive units and private plants from selling electricity outside their boundaries on the grounds of a power deficit in the respective State.
The curbs on wheeling of power outside the State have mostly been invoked under Section 11 and 108 of the Act.
“The issue has been brought to the notice of the Central Government, the Planning Commission and the Central Electricity Authority by some IPPs (independent power projects, that is, private project developers). Providing non-discriminatory open access to transmission and distribution systems is necessary for inter-State sale of power, market development and protecting the interest of the consumer. We are taking up the issue with the concerned States in strong terms,” a senior official with the Power Ministry said.
The Electricity Act has given powers to the State Governments under “extraordinary circumstances” to give directions to the generating stations to clamp supplies outside the State. These circumstances have been defined in the law to mean “circumstances arising out of threat to the security of the state, public order or a natural calamity or such circumstances arising in public interest”.
“It is these provisions that are being misused. Except for irregular monsoons, clearly nothing adverse has taken place across any of these States to necessitate the invoking of the restrictive measures,” an official from the CEA said.
By using the restrictive provisions, most States are permitting sale of power in the short-term market only when certain quantity of surplus from captive power plants is supplied to the State grid. Depending upon the requirement of a State, sellers are either denied power during evening peak hours or, in some cases, allowed after committing some quantity of power round-the-clock to the State grid.
Other roadblocks in the market development are high transmission charges for the use of State network and cross-subsidy surcharges imposed on the industrial consumers for getting the open access facility.
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2009/12/26/stories/2009122652420100.htm

Somany Ceramics augments captive power generation capacity at its Kassar plant

Adds additional 3MW captive power generators

New Delhi - November 12: Somany Ceramics Ltd., one of the leading tile manufacturers in India, today announced its plans to enhance its captive power generation by 3 MW at its manufacturing unit in Kassar, Haryana, in order to ensure uninterrupted power supply. The company has entered into a long term agreement with GAIL for the required quantity of natural gas annually for running these generators.

The irregular power supply tends to affect the temperature of the kiln which has a direct relation with the quality of the products. Thus, the uninterrupted power supply will help in reducing the production loss.

The company earlier had capacity of 2MW power generation by using natural gas and with this the company's total captive power generation will increase to 5 MW. In addition to setting up the power generators, Somany Ceramics will simultaneously install equipments for full utilization of the waste heat generated from these generators.

Somany Ceramics expects improvement in its bottom line by about Rs. 600 lacs annually beginning from the next financial year on account of saving in power and fuel costs, improvement in output and the quality of the products.

The generators and heat recovery systems are scheduled for commissioning towards the end of the current financial year.

The stock closed the day at Rs.114.45, up by Rs.5.45 or 5%. The stock hit an intraday high of Rs.114.45 and low of Rs.108.

The total traded quantity was 425 compared to 2 week average of 1872.
http://www.equitybulls.com/admin/news2006/news_det.asp?id=63815

Power Generators

Ridgeblade is a device that sits on the roof of your home and contains a rotor that can generate power when wind hits it. It’s different to the more conventional generators that are seen and sits quite neatly on the roof of a home.
The Ridgeblade was designed as part of the 2009 Dutch Postcode Lottery Green Challenge and is touted by it’s designers as being an “innovative, affordable and effective way of harnessing the winds power to produce renewable energy.”
The design of the ridgeblade unit allows it to produce electricity in low wind conditions. This is partly down to where it is placed (on the top of the roof) where wind can be easily channelled through the turbine. The roof accelerates the wind to generate more power.
Ridgeblade could hit the market as soon as early 2010 if final testing proves to be succesful.
http://www.gadgetvenue.com/ridgeblade-wind-power-generator-11064342/

Australia generators may get more carbon aid -paper

CANBERRA, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Some Australian power generators could get extra compensation on top of $2.8 billion already offered to help them adapt to the country's planned carbon-trading scheme, a local newspaper said on Friday.
The national government has agreed to review the level of compensation for brown coal-fired stations in Victoria state, The Age said, quoting confidential papers from the state government.
Victoria has been lobbying Canberra for more aid for the stations, among the industry's major carbon polluters, amid concerns that some could be forced to close.
Compensation has become a key battle ground in a political row over legislation underpinning the emissions scheme, which faces a second and possibly decisive vote in parliament next month.
The conservative opposition has called for more help for the coal industry and power generators in proposing amendments to the legislation. But Climate Change Minister Penny Wong has warned that compensation is not a "bottomless pit".
The legislation has already failed to pass the upper house once before and a second vote is set for late November. If it fails again, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd would be able to call a snap election on the issue.
The Age quoted an unnamed power-industry consultant as saying Victoria Premier John Brumby, who belongs to Rudd's ruling Labor party, was worried about station closures and power disruptions.
http://in.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idINSYD47545020091023

For Safer Emergencies, Give Your Power Generator Some Space

To subdue the steaming heat of hurricanes or to thaw out during a blizzard, gasoline-powered, portable generators are a lifeline during weather emergencies when homes are cut off without electricity. But these generators emit poisonous carbon monoxide—a single generator can produce a hundred times more of the colorless, odorless gas than a modern car's exhaust.

New research from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) shows that to prevent potentially dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, users may need to keep generators farther from the house than previously believed—perhaps as much as 25 feet.
Up to half of the incidents of non-fatal carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning reported in the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons involved generators run within 7 feet of the home, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Carbon monoxide can enter a house through a number of airflow paths, such as a door or window left open to accommodate the extension cord that brings power from the generator into the house. While some guidance recommends 10 feet from open windows as a safe operating distance, NIST researcher Steven Emmerich says the "safe" operating distance depends on the house, the weather conditions and the unit. A generator's carbon monoxide output is usually higher than an automobile's, he says, because most generators do not have the sophisticated emission controls that cars do.
"People need to be aware that generators are potentially deadly and they need to educate themselves on proper use," Emmerich says. With funding from CDC, NIST researchers are gathering reliable data to support future CDC guidance.
NIST building researchers simulated multiple scenarios of a portable generator operating outside of a one-story house, using both a test structure and two different computer models—the NIST-developed CONTAM indoor air quality model and a computational fluid dynamics model.
The simulations included factors that could be controlled by humans, such as generator location, exhaust direction and window-opening size, and environmental factors such as wind, temperature and house dimensions. In the simulations the generator was placed at various distances from the house and tested under different weather conditions.
"We found that for the house modeled in this study," researcher Leon Wang says, "a generator position 15 feet away from open windows was not far enough to prevent carbon monoxide entry into the house."
Winds perpendicular to the open window resulted in more carbon monoxide entry than winds at an angle, and lower wind speeds generally allowed more carbon monoxide in the house. "Slow, stagnant wind seems to be the worst case because it leads to the carbon monoxide lingering by the windows," Wang explains. Researchers determined that placing the generator outside of the airflow recirculation regions near the open windows reduced carbon monoxide entry.
In the next phase of the study NIST will model a two-story house that researchers believe will interact with the wind differently. NIST researchers also have worked with the Consumer Product Safety Commission on related work. (See: "NIST to Study Hazards of Portable Gasoline-Powered Generators," NIST Tech Beat, March 5, 2008.)
* L. Wang and S.J. Emmerich. Modeling the Effects of Outdoor Gasoline Powered Generator Use on Indoor Carbon Monoxide Exposures. (NIST Technical Note 1637,) 2009.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091006191351.htm

Generators capture wave power

ABB generators are one of the essential components of the Pelamis Wave Energy Converter, designed by Edinburgh based Ocean Power Delivery.

ABB generators are capturing power from the waves in the world's first commercial wave power generation project.

The ABB generators are one of the essential components of the Pelamis Wave Energy Converter , designed by Edinburgh based Ocean Power Delivery (OPD) .
The first commercial wave farm project at Agucadora off the coast of Portugal will be operational during the coming months and will supply power for around 1,500 Portuguese homes.
The OPD Pelamis is a semi-submerged, articulated structure composed of cylindrical sections.
Three of the sections are designed as power modules, with two ABB 125kW generators in each section.
This allows for a high degree of fault tolerance and gives a total power output for the Pelamis of 750 kW.
Power modules are linked by hinged joints.
The wave-induced motion of these joints is resisted by hydraulic rams, which pressurise the hydraulic system.
Hydraulic motors are used in turn to drive the ABB electrical generators to produce electricity.
Power from all the joints is fed down a single umbilical cable to a junction on the sea bed.
Several devices can be connected together and linked to shore through a single seabed cable.
ABB was selected because of its willingness to meet the needs of OPD.
Steffi Anderson, Electrical Systems Engineer with OPD, says: "ABB came on board when our previous generator supplier could not meet our needs.
We needed a generator with a high IP rating, IP 67 and ABB had a new sealing system it had designed for motors on the decks of ships.
ABB provided a prototype generator at a low cost and was very keen to be part of the project." Much of the ABB work was performed at the ABB motor plant in Vaasa, Finland.
ABB was also prepared to adapt its products to suit OPD's space constraints in the modules.
It reduced the frame size of its generator from 315 to 280, cutting the weight from 860 kg to 725 kg.
Says Anderson: "This was a great help because the lower frame size meant the generators were easier to install in the power modules, where space was at a premium." ABB also adapted its power connections, moving from a cable box to a system using flying leads in order to make it easier to connect the generator to the switchgear panel.
Derek Robinson, ABB's Production Manager for cast iron products, says: "Renewable energy is a major focus for ABB and we were glad of the chance to work with OPD to help them develop their wave energy generators.
Our goal now is to help reduce the cost per kilowatt-hour by engineering out costs, improving efficiency and reducing sizes and stress." Anderson added: "ABB were very easy to work with and were very willing to adapt their products to meet our needs.
We envisage building larger versions of the wave energy converter that will use four power modules and so incorporate eight generators.
We expect to have a number of projects underway in the near future, including sites in the Orkneys and in Cornwall, so ABB could be supplying us with as many as 40 generators for this new work.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/abb/abb226.html

Pervasive power generator monitoring system launched by C.a.T.S.

Computer assisted Telephony Systems (C.a.T.S.) has launched an ambitious new product called Pogmos (power generator monitoring system), which is a ubiquitous monitoring system that allows for pervasive monitoring of power generators.

The solution relies on wireless communication (GPRS/GSM), is SMPP-enabled, with Web-based management, monitoring and administration.
The solution also features ease of integration, with all components compliant to international industrial standards. The product is focused on the telecommunications market; however, it is suited for most any environment.

When prompted on what initiated the concept of Pogmos, Johan Grobler, MD of CaTS, stated: “Being involved with IBM's Tivoli range of products, we realised the value and necessity of a single and simple view into everything operational; we also discovered that most of our clients do not have a single view into their day-to-day operational performance. Companies invest vast amounts of money in equipment and infrastructure, which is not performing optimally. With Pogmos, operational managers will be able to follow progress as generators are serviced, as refuelling is done, when generators are started and so forth. Imagine the wealth - if business intelligence, which will be gathered with managers having access to data pertaining to where and when power failures are most common, where theft is more prevalent, where maintenance is need, to what extent is the breakdown linked to maintenance, and the list continues. This will move managers and support staff alike from being reactive to being proactive.”

Pogmos allows for the true pervasive monitoring of generators, which is geographically dispersed. Elements that are monitored include:

* Generator start-up and stop
* Cabinet activity (if doors are opened etc)
* Engine temperature
* Coolant
* Crank battery voltage
* Engine fuel flow
* Tank fuel flow
* Tank fuel levels etc

The monitor correlates inputs to generate alerts to the support team when abnormalities occur. The system generates graphs to visualise trends.

Grobler continued: “We endeavoured to design this product in order for it to be highly scalable and configurable. As was stated in numerous publications, in the mobile environment, escalating operation cost and logistical requirements have been almost impossible to overcome. One of the largest sub-Saharan mobile operators has over 5 000 base stations in a single country, with most complemented with two back-up generators.

“Many to most of the base stations are out of reach of the national power grid, hence the requirement for two generators per base station site. However, even if a base station falls within the power grid, a backup generator is essential. The running cost of urban base stations has been estimated at about USD2 500 per month, with remote sites up to USD210 000 per month.”

Grobler continued: “Added to these costs are the woes of theft in terms of copper, general equipment and especially fuel. Lack of delivery when it comes to contractors eats into operation costs, with no clear benefit. We are confident that an implementation of Pogmos will yield significant savings on capital and operational expenditure.”

With Pogmos, an operator can pinpoint any activity related to the generator, assure services were successful according to set measurements and reporting can be done on demand for optimisation. Pogmos also includes a model to perform an audit in terms of fuel added to the tank, and the actual fuel consumption of the generator, assuring that fuel theft is kept to a minimum.

Grobler concluded: “With a base state costing an operator roughly USD125 000 to put in place, we are also keen as an innovative company to look at ways of assisting operators to protect their investment by real-time monitoring, allowing for rapid and accurate response to system failures resulting from theft, lack of maintenance or general breakdown.”
http://www.itweb.co.za/sections/telecoms/2009/0909020739.asp?A=INT&S=Internet&T=News&O=ST

Import of generators plunges

KARACHI: Dealers have curtailed imports of power machines following the government’s ambitious campaign that power loadshedding would be over by December this year and approval of many rental power plants.

Generators import plunged to $84.7 million in July 2009 as compared to $207 million in June 2009. However, imports in July 2008 were $110 million.

Pakistan Machinery Merchant Group (PMMG) President Khurram Saigal said dealers had maintained thin pace of import of generators during August also.

He said that dealers had been reluctant in placing new orders as they smelled some positive changes like end of power failures by December followed by approval of 14 rental power plants for generating 1,500 MW.

Khurram was of the view that there was a slight decline in power outages in the last few months. He added that many people had suspended plans to buy generators amid persistent reports of betterment in power supply situation and change in weather.

He said dealers usually place lesser orders during July to August as demand starts falling from September owing to weather change. But last year they made massive imports in anticipation of higher demand in view of massive power breakdowns, he added.

Generators’ import had crossed $1.75 billion in 2008-09 from $1.25 billion in 2007-08 mainly owing to massive devaluation of the rupee against the dollar.

‘The current fiscal year has kicked off with slow import of generators which is quite different from the last fiscal year,’ he said.

He said that generators’ prices on world markets had slightly fallen this year, but the devaluation of the rupee had eaten up its impact on domestic prices.

He further said that rising food prices had also squeezed the buying power of consumers resulting in shrinking demand for generators.

Faisal Jehangir, member of the PMMG, said that government’s propaganda of overcoming power loadshedding by December and change of weather had resulted in slow imports.

He said this year the buying season had started late from March/April as compared to February last year which continued till October 2008. ‘Irrespective of the intensity of loadshedding as compared to last year sales of generators have remained depressed especially in Sindh,’ he added.

However, sales remained normal in interior Punjab where power failures were higher than Sindh. Punjab consumes about 60 per cent of total imports of generators because of hot weather.

He did not agree that prices of generators had come down on world markets but said that prices at the domestic markets were sustaining instead of showing any increase.
http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/business/09-import-of-generators-plunges--szh-03

Web site details standby power generators

Web site provides useful technical data and images on a range of generators - from 1kW to 3000kVA - as well as examples of the low monthly rentals some clients have benefited from.

Generator Associates are proud to announce the official launch of their new Web site.

Generator Associates are the fastest growing standby power generation company in the UK, with over 20 years experience in all aspects of backup and primary power generation.

They can supply a range of generators from 1kW to 3000kVA including UPS.

Their new Web site could not have come at a better time, as the growing number of power cuts cripple businesses throughout the world.

Proactive organisations need to plan now, to keep their doors open when it happens.

The new website provides useful technical data and images on a range of generators as well as examples of the low monthly rentals some of our recent clients have benefited from.

What makes Generator Associates unique in their field is that they provide generators for backup and primary power alongside leasing solutions that take the sting out of the tail of capital expenditure, spreading the financial outlay over an extended period.

Electrical power is everyone's ultimate dependency, with the majority of critical business services dependent upon it, however it is becoming less reliable.

Businesses throughout the world have recently experienced the devastating effects of power failures such as in the UK, US, Italy, and Scandinavia.

Unless organisations take action now, the next blackout could severely damage your reputation and ultimately your profitability.

Generator Associates are proud to offer a free assessment of your power supply needs, and will take on your problem as their own.

While you sit back Generator Associates do all the work and present the most beneficial power supply solution to you.

The leasing packages mean you simply pay a fixed low monthly rental for your new solution, and receive peace of mind with after-sales service including 24/7 emergency call out, technical help-line, and tailored maintenance packages.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gec/gec100.html

BHEL, NPCIL ink MoU to produce N-Power plant equipment

Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) an another public sector unit (PSU) to form a joint venture company (JVC) to carry out engineering procurement and construction (EPC) activities on the secondary side of the nuclear power plants.

Heavy industries and public enterprises minister Vilasrao Deshmukh said that these activities include production of turbines of 700 mega watts energy (MWe) and above rating within India and abroad.

He said BHEL (Q,N,C,F)* is in discussions with probable/likely international technology providers for 700 MWe and above nuclear turbines.

BHEL has already manufactured and supplied some Nuclear reactor components like steam generators, Reactor Headers and Nuclear Turbine Generator set to NPCL for their 220 MWe reactors.

He said earlier in March this year BHEL was awarded a contract for manufacture of steam generator for 700 MWe reactor.

http://www.myiris.com/newsCentre/storyShownew_opt.php?fileR=20090730170209194&secID=fromnewsroom&secTitle=From%20the%20News%20Room&dir=2009/07/30

Web site details standby power generators

Web site provides useful technical data and images on a range of generators - from 1kW to 3000kVA - as well as examples of the low monthly rentals some clients have benefited from.

Generator Associates are proud to announce the official launch of their new Web site.

Generator Associates are the fastest growing standby power generation company in the UK, with over 20 years experience in all aspects of backup and primary power generation.

They can supply a range of generators from 1kW to 3000kVA including UPS.

Their new Web site could not have come at a better time, as the growing number of power cuts cripple businesses throughout the world.

Proactive organisations need to plan now, to keep their doors open when it happens.

The new website provides useful technical data and images on a range of generators as well as examples of the low monthly rentals some of our recent clients have benefited from.

What makes Generator Associates unique in their field is that they provide generators for backup and primary power alongside leasing solutions that take the sting out of the tail of capital expenditure, spreading the financial outlay over an extended period.

Electrical power is everyone's ultimate dependency, with the majority of critical business services dependent upon it, however it is becoming less reliable.

Businesses throughout the world have recently experienced the devastating effects of power failures such as in the UK, US, Italy, and Scandinavia.

Unless organisations take action now, the next blackout could severely damage your reputation and ultimately your profitability.

Generator Associates are proud to offer a free assessment of your power supply needs, and will take on your problem as their own.

While you sit back Generator Associates do all the work and present the most beneficial power supply solution to you.

The leasing packages mean you simply pay a fixed low monthly rental for your new solution, and receive peace of mind with after-sales service including 24/7 emergency call out, technical help-line, and tailored maintenance packages.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gec/gec100.html

Comdel Supplies Power Generators To Korean Solar Company

Comdel Inc., a supplier of RF and DC power supplies and process instruments to the semiconductor and photovoltaic industries, supplied a major Korean company in the solar industry with the CXH 50K, 40 MHz generator.

According to Comdel, the CXH is one of the highest-frequency power generators made for solar applications. The generator will be used in the production of solar cells.

The CXH Series of high-power supplies is designed to operate at a fixed frequency over the range of 2 MHz to 40 MHz, with power from 15 kW to 100 kW. The rugged amplifier design is well suited to demanding applications where stability and reliability in the presence of erratic loads is required, Comdel says.
http://www.solarindustrymag.com/e107_plugins/content/content_lt.php?content.3378

Scorpion system tests power generators online

Scorpion Power Systems has introduced a system that allows power generators to be tested online.

The system operates in parallel with the mains supply, which allows the generator's load to be tested without a break during a mains-failure simulation.

This is important as these simulations can disturb the site supply.

The panel provides a visual generating and mains-supply status and also incorporates a full data-logging facility.

By incorporating a PLC control system, the unit can communicate via a communications link with the generator to create a PLC network.

This allows the generator to step in and take over from the UPS no longer than 30 seconds after a mains failure.

When it detects the return of the mains power, Scorpion's system switches back automatically without a break in power supply.

The Scorpion system can also provide peak-lopping.

This is useful for companies that may be financially penalised by the regional electricity company for exceeding their specified power consumption.

When this point is about to be reached, the control system can be programmed to start the generator automatically so that it takes over the load without a break in power supply.

The panel complies with power regulation G59.

It is almost half the size of earlier no-break return systems.

It can be specified with Scorpion Powerhouse generators, which provide long-term protection for critical and sensitive equipment.

It can also be retrofitted to existing systems.

http://www.electronicstalk.com/news/shn/shn101.html

Web site details standby power generators

Web site provides useful technical data and images on a range of generators - from 1kW to 3000kVA - as well as examples of the low monthly rentals some clients have benefited from.

Generator Associates are proud to announce the official launch of their new Web site.

Generator Associates are the fastest growing standby power generation company in the UK, with over 20 years experience in all aspects of backup and primary power generation.

They can supply a range of generators from 1kW to 3000kVA including UPS.

Their new Web site could not have come at a better time, as the growing number of power cuts cripple businesses throughout the world.

Proactive organisations need to plan now, to keep their doors open when it happens.

The new website provides useful technical data and images on a range of generators as well as examples of the low monthly rentals some of our recent clients have benefited from.

What makes Generator Associates unique in their field is that they provide generators for backup and primary power alongside leasing solutions that take the sting out of the tail of capital expenditure, spreading the financial outlay over an extended period.

Electrical power is everyone's ultimate dependency, with the majority of critical business services dependent upon it, however it is becoming less reliable.

Businesses throughout the world have recently experienced the devastating effects of power failures such as in the UK, US, Italy, and Scandinavia.

Unless organisations take action now, the next blackout could severely damage your reputation and ultimately your profitability.

Generator Associates are proud to offer a free assessment of your power supply needs, and will take on your problem as their own.

While you sit back Generator Associates do all the work and present the most beneficial power supply solution to you.

The leasing packages mean you simply pay a fixed low monthly rental for your new solution, and receive peace of mind with after-sales service including 24/7 emergency call out, technical help-line, and tailored maintenance packages.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gec/gec100.html

Merchant Power Generators Rise As Natural Gas Prices Rebound

NEW YORK (Dow Jones)--Shares of merchant power-generation companies soared Friday, fueled by a recent rebound in natural gas futures prices.

Independent power producers such as Dynegy Inc. (DYN), Calpine Corp. (CPN) and NRG Energy Inc. (NRG) rely on market prices rather than regulated rates for their output. The companies have been battered amid a steep decline in natural gas prices and a slump in electricity demand. Plants that run on natural gas often set prices in regional power markets, resulting in a strong correlation between natural gas and power prices.

Shares of Dynegy were recently up 20% at $2.09, Calpine shares rose 17% to $11.11 and NRG was up 10% at $21.15. Others in the sector, including Mirant Corp. (MIR), shot up as well Friday.

"My call is it would be all gas related," said Brandon Blossman, an analyst with Tudor Pickering Holt & Co., of Friday's gains across the sector.

Natural gas futures have rebounded by more than 20% since the end of April, when gas traded near its lowest in more than six years, with the biggest gains coming in the last week. Gas for June delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange was recently up 4% to $4.243 a million British thermal units.

Blossman said strength in natural gas prices can have a two-fold effect on the shares of power producers. First, power producers benefit from the expectations of higher margins as power prices rise. Then, the macroeconomic factors often pushing up gas futures are viewed as positives for power demand, Blossman said.

In the last week, several power producers have reported stronger-than- expected first-quarter earnings, as hedging programs have protected earnings over the near term.

Merchant power stocks don't seem to have been hurt by a dampened outlook for merger and acquisition activity. Speculation of deals provided a boost to stocks in recent months. But a week ago, RRI Energy Inc. (RRI) ended a strategic review without selling its whole business. Then on Friday, Mirant executives downplayed activity in the near term during a conference call with analysts.

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20090508-713313.html

Rell Wants Answers From Power Generators

Gov. M. Jodi Rell asked the U.S. Department of Justice on Thursday to investigate possible criminal violations in the payment of $85.8 million to New York power generators for electricity that she said they never intended to deliver.

Rell sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. asking him to investigate the power companies after they collected the money to guarantee power availability in New England at times of high demand. Rell said the generators deliberately overpriced their power so that they would never actually be called on to supply it.

The governor also asked Holder to investigate ISO New England, the region's power grid operator, which she said "either knew of this scheme and failed to act, or negligently overlooked this sham."

"There is some question whether the power companies that were supposed to be on standby even had the assets needed to generate the extra power — and whether ISO New England knew that," Rell said in a statement.
Also on Thursday, the state Department of Public Utility Control filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission seeking repayment of the $85.8 million to New England electric customers along with any possible penalties and interest. The portion that Connecticut ratepayers would receive is $23 million.

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal has filed his own complaint with the regulatory commission and is investigating the power generators and ISO New England for antitrust violations.

"We are at the very beginning point of providing information to the Department of Justice that would enable senior officials to make an informed decision," Blumenthal said.

ISO New England revealed the payments in a March filing with the regulatory commission asking that market rules be changed so that generators outside New England be required to offer competitive prices.

ISO initially told the regulatory commission that the generators had failed to deliver power when called on 108 times since 2006. But after Connecticut officials demanded more details, ISO corrected itself, saying the generators were actually never called on to supply power because their prices were too high.
http://www.courant.com/business/hc-iso-new-england-0424.artapr24,0,7574808.story

Scorpion system tests power generators online

Scorpion Power Systems has introduced a system that allows power generators to be tested online.

The system operates in parallel with the mains supply, which allows the generator's load to be tested without a break during a mains-failure simulation.

This is important as these simulations can disturb the site supply.

The panel provides a visual generating and mains-supply status and also incorporates a full data-logging facility.

By incorporating a PLC control system, the unit can communicate via a communications link with the generator to create a PLC network.

This allows the generator to step in and take over from the UPS no longer than 30 seconds after a mains failure.

When it detects the return of the mains power, Scorpion's system switches back automatically without a break in power supply.

The Scorpion system can also provide peak-lopping.

This is useful for companies that may be financially penalised by the regional electricity company for exceeding their specified power consumption.

When this point is about to be reached, the control system can be programmed to start the generator automatically so that it takes over the load without a break in power supply.

The panel complies with power regulation G59.

It is almost half the size of earlier no-break return systems.

It can be specified with Scorpion Powerhouse generators, which provide long-term protection for critical and sensitive equipment.

It can also be retrofitted to existing systems.

http://www.electronicstalk.com/news/shn/shn101.html

7 Awesome Leadership Power Generators!

7 Awe-Inspiring Leadership Power-Generating Strategies!

Here's a really simple way you can use your personal
infrastructure to increase your leadership power, create new
innovative solutions and nurture your growth opportunities.

Failing to invest in your power-producing abilities will
definitely prevent you from realizing success on the job and
rob your future career efforts of enjoyment.

This article will show you 7 self-empowering ways to
transform your ordinary power-deficits into:

=> Power-packed acts

=> Powered-up impacts

=> Power-generating results

Employing these time-tested strategies will boost your
influence, improve your effectiveness and energize your
leadership talents.

Empowering Strategy-1 - Envision Your Significance!

Every person has the potential to make a difference in this
world. Look at how your life interacts with others and
offers them opportunities to discover, contribute or create

=> meanings,

=> impacts,

=> solutions.

See yourself taking positive actions, making meaningful
contributions and shaping creative solutions. To succeed, be
someone who searches for and empowers meanings, impacts or
solutions to enrich our work, lives and situations.

Empowering Strategy-2 - Model Success!

The first rule of investment is: "Invest in yourself first!"

History is the stories of leaders, role models and movers
and shakers. Why try to re-invent the wheel, when there are
thousands of successes already available to you?

Stop reading this article and run to your bookshelf or
library and find the life story of the person you consider
to be the greatest leader of all time.

Still here? - don't come back until you have that book in
your possession.

OK, now start reading, studying and applying the principles
that that person used to reach their pinnacle of success.

Empowering Strategy-3 - Be Eager to Learn New Things!

Well, let's see - there are many ways to acquire new
knowledge, uncover hidden truths and find wisdom:

=> books, magazines, articles and papers, training courses and programs, discussion groups, media outlets, stories and plays, dreams and meditations, fasting ad prayers. <=

If you are a person who works with information, people or
ideas you need to invest at least 4 hours a week into your
continuing education or $60 USD a month or both.

In this ever-changing world of challenges, problems and
opportunities, you need to force yourself to be eager to
learn new things!

Empowering Strategy-4 - Appreciate Yourself!

A great source of personal power comes from embracing the
gifts of life, liberty and happiness you enjoy.

Regardless of your plight, there is a preciousness about
your unique desires, feelings, thoughts and experiences
worthy of your reflection, appreciation and recognition.

Your achievements, accomplishments and realizations should
be remembered, recorded and contemplated on using:

=> Diaries and journals

=> Mind-maps or doodling

=> Audio or video-taping

Empowering Strategy-5 - Harmonize Your Mind!

Meeting with people who wish to share their ideas,
objectives and visions with you in a spirit of perfect
cooperation and harmony increases your success to Warp-speed
factor-10!

You probably already have seen how other legendary leaders
have used this Master Mind concept to great benefit - just
look at the role played and power exerted by the alliances
your leader participated in.

Your Master Mind may include people you usually do not
associate with - like other professionals, entrepreneurs and
leaders - almost certainly, your everyday colleagues,
friends or family members will not want to join your group.

Empowering Strategy-6 - Energize Your Faith!

Faith is simply a matter of adding something of substance to
your hopes and then using the eyes of your mind to see
evidence of those things even though they are not yet there.

What do you hope for? To energize your faith, you must first
put some substance into your hope.

Let's say you are hoping for a better job. What substantial
efforts are you investing into that hope?

=> Have you re-written or prettied-up your CV/Resume?

=> Are you consulting with Search counselors or experts?

=> Do you know which jobs or industries you want to work in?

Empowering Strategy-7 - Be Willing to Serve!

Greed, selfishness and closed-mindedness block the flow of
power every time - these negative attitudes compel us to
pull back from connecting with and enjoying sources of
power.

Power is a two-way exchange, we give it away and take
advantage of it. Jesus observed that the "greatest among you
[human beings] shall be servant of all."

History's greatest and most beloved leaders have all been
servants to their cultures, nations and to our world.

You can learn more about this subject by reading our 'blog': Leadership skills training & development for creating energy!
http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Awesome-Leadership-Power-Generators!&id=7581

Permit filter verified for prime power generators

CleanAir Systems has received verification for prime power generators by the California Air Resources Board for their Permit diesel particulate filter as a Level 3 diesel emission control device

CleanAir Systems has received verification for prime power generators by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) for their Permit diesel particulate filter as a Level 3 diesel emission control device.

According to an Executive Order dated November 6th, ARB verifies that the Permit Filter reduces emissions of diesel particulate matter by 85 percent or greater, for use in stationary prime generators with particulate matter (PM) levels of up to 0.2 g/bhp-hr.

Prime power stationary generators are designated as power sources operating as a principal source of power and are usually in continuous operation for long periods of time.

These include generators used in remote areas as a primary power source, as well as those used for self-generation by corporations, schools or hospitals producing their own power.

The ARB also extended verification of the CleanAir Systems Permit filter until 2009 for use on stationary emergency generators, to include all applications tested or certified to particulate matter (PM) levels of up to 0.2 g/bhp-hr.

Emergency generators operate usually less than one hundred hours per year and are used as supplemental or back-up power generation in case of power loss.

For complete verification information on the Permit diesel particulate filter and engine operating criteria, the Executive Orders and Attachments can be found on the ARB website.
http://www.processingtalk.com/news/clk/clk101.html

Scorpion system tests power generators online

Scorpion Power Systems has introduced a system that allows power generators to be tested online.

The system operates in parallel with the mains supply, which allows the generator's load to be tested without a break during a mains-failure simulation.

This is important as these simulations can disturb the site supply.

The panel provides a visual generating and mains-supply status and also incorporates a full data-logging facility.

By incorporating a PLC control system, the unit can communicate via a communications link with the generator to create a PLC network.

This allows the generator to step in and take over from the UPS no longer than 30 seconds after a mains failure.

When it detects the return of the mains power, Scorpion's system switches back automatically without a break in power supply.

The Scorpion system can also provide peak-lopping.

This is useful for companies that may be financially penalised by the regional electricity company for exceeding their specified power consumption.

When this point is about to be reached, the control system can be programmed to start the generator automatically so that it takes over the load without a break in power supply.

The panel complies with power regulation G59.

It is almost half the size of earlier no-break return systems.

It can be specified with Scorpion Powerhouse generators, which provide long-term protection for critical and sensitive equipment.

It can also be retrofitted to existing systems.

http://www.electronicstalk.com/news/shn/shn101.html

Vertical-reservoir fluid power generators

Hydrapact fluid power generators are specifically designed to drive hydraulic motors in closed circuit forming a hydrostatic transmission ideal for 24/7 heavy-duty applications.

Hydrapact vertical-reservoir fluid power generators are specifically designed to drive either high- or low-speed hydraulic motors in closed circuit forming a hydrostatic transmission ideal for 24/7 heavy-duty applications.

Devices are currently available in eight pre-engineered sizes from 110 to 1660 litre/min or 30 to 600kW of installed power.

The heart of these unique fluid power generators is a Hydrokraft axial piston hydraulic pump driven by a flange mounted electric motor and incorporating a generously sized boost (25% of the main pump) providing increased cooling and circuit flushing, a separate pump for control pressure (if applicable), all necessary filters and a full flow hydrostatic transmission valve.

Both the pump and electric motor are horizontally flange mounted to the structurally reinforced vertical-reservoir assuring perfect coupling alignment and a flooded pump inlet at all times.

Hydrapact fluid power generators are built to withstand harsh, hostile environments and feature vertical-reservoirs, very low noise levels, unsurpassed serviceability, extremely compact, easy to install and maintain, automatic torque limiting, infinitely adjustable flow and are available with controlled acceleration and deceleration allowing for soft starts.

Designed primarily for industrial applications, these fluid power generators have a wide range of displacement control options available including electronic, hydraulic and mechanical, all based on the "building block principle".

Included, as standard equipment is a water-to-oil heat exchanger, pump swashplate indicator (visual), isolation mounts and a comprehensive range of instruments continuously monitoring the oil level, temperature and various pressures.

All control circuits are wired to a terminal strip located in an enclosure mounted on the fluid power generators and containing stop/start buttons for the electric motor, filter clogging light(s), low level light, high temperature light and a low charge pressure light.

A wide variety of accessories are also available.

Each Hydrapact fluid power generator is fully tested, primed and painted prior to shipping.
http://www.engineeringtalk.com/news/ihd/ihd102.html

Calif. cities to get refunds from power generators

California cities and investor-owned utilities should get refunds on electricity costs now that an appeals court has determined that power generators unfairly backdated increases from 2006 to 2007.

In 2005, a group of wholesale electricity generators filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission arguing that they were undercompensated for some services.

Six cities including Anaheim, Azusa, Banning, Colton, Pasadena and Riverside contested a later decision allowing the new rates to be put into effect on June 1, 2006, arguing that backdating the increase was not permitted.

Bonnie S. Blair, an attorney in Washington, D.C., who represented the municipalities before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, says her clients together will get several hundred thousands of dollars. She says other cities and utilities should also get refunds.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2009/02/27/financial/f143753S66.DTL&type=business

Generators will ensure uninterrupted power supply at exam centres

MUMBAI: The school education department has said it will ensure uninterrupted power supply at all SSC and HSC examination centres across the
state.
"The issue of load-shedding during the SSC and HSC exams was raised before the high court last year. Then the court had asked the education department to take necessary measures to ensure proper facilities for the students. This time, we have decided to provide uninterrupted power supply at all the 6,000-odd centres,'' Sanjay Kumar, school education secretary, told TOI on Friday.

Sanjay Kumar had convened a high-level meeting of the officials of the education and energy department to draft a comprehensive action plan to ensure adequate power supply at all exam centres.

Energy department officials said that due to unprecedented load-shedding across the state ranging between six to 18 hours, it will not be possible to supply uninterrupted power to the examination centres. "We made it clear at the meeting that we will not be able to supply power to examination centres, since it was not possible to isolate the them. We can ensure power supply at only those centres where feeder separation is possible,'' a senior energy department official said.

In view of the scenario, it has been proposed to hire power generation sets for the examination centres. "As per our information, nearly 4,500 examination centres will require generators. We plan to hire these sets for the examination beginning from February 26,'' said a school education department official.

The official said hiring power generation sets will be a costly affair, but all steps will be taken to ensure adequate power supply. The charge for a generator ranges between Rs 500 to Rs 5,000 per day, depending upon its capacity. The education department was not sure if such a large number of generators was available on hire. "We are still working out the cost of the proposal. We will place the entire proposal before the cabinet. If the cabinet does not approve the proposal, then we will have no option but to levy a minor surcharge on the students to recover the cost of the power generators,'' the official said.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Mumbai/Generators_will_ensure_uninterrupted_power_supply_at_exam_centres/articleshow/
4090394.cms

Puget Sound Energy buys two Whatcom County power

Puget Sound Energy has purchased two 74-megawatt, natural gas-fired electric generators at the Whitehorn Generating Station, located northwest of Ferndale.

PSE bought the single-cycle, combustion-turbine generators for $22.6 million from Newark, N.J-based Public Service Resources Corp. The utility has been leasing the two units and using their power output since 1981.

PSE's Whitehorn power plant is used primarily to provide a source of back-up energy during daily or seasonal spikes in power usage. The facility's turbines can reach full generating capacity in a matter of minutes.

Over the past two years, PSE has overhauled and upgraded the two Whitehorn generating units. The utility's original Whitehorn generator, installed in 1974, was retired in 2000.

http://www.bellinghamherald.com/102/story/781169.html

HECO sees hope in new generator

A new generator coming on line next summer should reduce the time Oahu residents spend in the dark during the next blackout, Hawaiian Electric Co. officials said yesterday.

The so-called combustion engine generator will be an advance equivalent to moving from propeller planes to the jet age, said Robbie Alm, HECO executive vice president.

It will start up in about 10 minutes, compared with 4 1/2 hours -- the time it took the first generators to get up and running during Friday's islandwide blackout.

"Once you get the first unit up, everything begins to fall into line," Alm said.

Meanwhile, HECO crews will head for the hills today to inspect transmission lines for signs of a suspected lightning strike or other reasons for the power failure.

State officials said yesterday the overall response to the emergency by the airport and hotels was good and that everything was back to normal yesterday.

http://www.starbulletin.com/news/20081229_HECO_sees_hope_in_new_generator.html