Ansaldo Energia Improves Power Output, Efficiency, Emissions Control at San Severo Plant

Ansaldo Energia recently completed several upgrades at Alpiq’s San Severo combined-cycle power plant, including modifications to the gas turbine, steam turbine, and generator. The project, completed within the agreed-upon timeframe, improved operational flexibility and allowed the plant to operate with up to 25% hydrogen, aligning with Italy’s decarbonization targets.

“This project represents a fundamental step in ensuring the security and flexibility of Italy’s power system,” said Massimiliano Bignami, Country Manager Italy, Alpiq. “The upgrade strengthens the strategic role of the San Severo plant, already qualified in the capacity market, contributing to grid stability and the integration of renewable sources.”

Prior to the upgrades, the company anticipated a 43-MW power increase, 0.9% efficiency improvement, and a reduction of over 10,000 tons of CO₂ emissions per year. However, after the initial operational tests, Ansaldo Energia observed even better performance than first forecasted. The upgrade strengthens the plant’s role as a flexible and highly efficient asset, supporting Italy’s national energy security and energy transition.

San Severo combined-cycle facility | Image Credit: Ansaldo Energia

“We are grateful to Alpiq for the trust placed in us with this important project,” said Reto Furrer, Executive Vice President of Thermal Service, Ansaldo Energia. “As the original equipment manufacturer of the key components, Ansaldo Energia has provided its expertise and advanced technologies to ensure the plant is ready to meet the challenges of the energy transition and an ever-evolving power market.”

The approximately 400-MW San Severo plant entered operation in 2011, generating electricity for nearly 1 million households in Southern Italy. As one of the most modern combined-cycle facilities in Italy, the plant generates electricity while delivering necessary grid stabilization services.

Supporting Ireland’s Grid

In early June 2025, Ansaldo Energia and Kilshane Energy agreed to strengthen Ireland’s electric infrastructure with a 300-MW energy security project in Kilshane, Dublin, Ireland; commissioning is set for 2028. To support the peaking plant’s operational flexibility and stabilize the grid, Ansaldo Energia will provide an AE94.3A gas turbine in an open-cycle configuration and the associated generator.

And in February, Ansaldo Energia agreed to provide a hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)-fueled turbine for Ireland’s Tarbert Next-Generation Power Station, a 300-MW facility set to run entirely on sustainable biofuel. The AE94.3A turbine will be paired with a generator to deliver fossil-free power using HVO, a diesel alternative made from waste feedstocks.

SSE Thermal’s project aligns with the European Union’s sustainability standards as Ireland moves toward cleaner energy solutions—HVO is lower carbon than traditional fossil fuels. The simple-cycle Tarbert Power Station will support and contribute to Ireland’s electricity supply, securing electrical power and providing critical electricity to the supply system during peak demand. Also, the plant will Ireland’s expanding renewable generation capacity.

Turbines in the Middle East

In May 2025, TAQA ordered four Ansaldo Energia AE94.3A gas turbines, generators, and associated services for its recently commissioned 1-GW Al Dhafra power plant in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Under a long-term service agreement, Ansaldo Energia will provide continuous monitoring and technical support services for the Al Dhafra plant. The company will manage installation and commissioning work for the plant, which is expected to come online in May 2027.