GE Hitachi Builds SMR, GE Vernova Invests in Saudi Arabia, Ansaldo Forms Nuclitalia, EthosEnergy Signs O&M Contract, Baker Hughes Unveils Flame Tracker

Welcome to the ninth edition of the Turbomachinery News Network. I’m James Cook, assistant editor at Turbomachinery International.

The Province of Ontario and Ontario Power Generation approved the construction phase for GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy’s BWRX-300 small modular reactor at OPG’s Darlington site. Completion is expected by 2030, with three additional SMRs planned for future installation at this location. GE Vernova also announced an up to $14.2 billion investment in Saudi Arabia’s energy transition, partnering with Saudi Electricity Co., ACWA Power, Aramco, and Principal Buyer.

Ansaldo Energia, Enel, and Leonardo founded Nuclitalia to study advanced nuclear technologies and market opportunities in Italy’s emerging nuclear industry. The company evaluates mature, environmentally sustainable nuclear power designs for water-cooled small modular reactors. It will conduct technical-economic analyses and outline specific system requirements to select the best possible options and integrate nuclear within Italy.

EthosEnergy signed an operations and maintenance contract for the 850-MW Maisan combined-cycle power plant located near Basra, Iraq. EthosEnergy will oversee plant operations, conduct routine inspections, and perform regular and preventive maintenance on all plant equipment.

Baker Hughes launched an advanced flame-detection technology to prevent damage, hazards, or explosions within gas turbines: Flame Tracker Increased Low Gain. It uses improved electronics to enable flame detection in low-light thresholds, so it detects flames accurately in less than 0.025 seconds. This includes low-light conditions like obscured sight tubes, condensation, fouled lenses, and other light-inhibiting factors.