This report describes a type of gasification/combined cycle system being considered for construction by a consortium of Louisiana cities that own electrical utility systems. The 115 KW system is expected to employ the Texaco Synthesis Gas Generation Process (TSGGP) to produce a fuel gas by partial oxidation of a hydrocarbon feedstock. The gas is cleaned to remove sulfur compounds, ash, and particulates, then burned as fuel for the gas turbine in a combined-cycle power system. The commercially-proven TSGGP process accepts a large variety of hydrocarbons as feedstocks. The initial feedstock for this application is expected to be heavy petroleum residues, although the potential exists for utilization of coal and lignite. Other features of the proposed system include (1) high thermal efficiency (relative to conventional steam generators) resulting in part from efficient recovery of thermal energy from the gasification of feedstock; and (2) extremely low levels of pollutants (SOx, NOx) in emissions to the atmosphere. The five participating municipalities have established a joint commission, 'Louisiana Municipal Power Commission' (LAMPCO), which has retained the services of bond counsel and investment banking firms, and is proceeding with plans to implement the proposed power generation facility.

Bibliography: p. 18-21.