Green Power at NCRC
Co-generation happens when natural gas is burned to generate electricity via a gas turbine generator, and heat from the exhaust is collected to create steam for heating with a heat recovery steam generator. By producing its own energy using natural gas, NCRC has more reliable power generation during outages.
In addition to reducing CO₂ emissions through co-generating power, NCRC has adopted the U-M composting program. All post-consumer waste, such as compostable plates, cups, flatware, bowls, napkins, and take out containers, along with uneaten or unwanted food, can be placed in specially marked bins at the usual locations.
By utilizing a gas turbine generator in its Power House, NCRC co-generates electricity and useful heat, alongside our DTE partner for the site. In addition, the lower price of natural gas, compared to electricity, means that co-generating power for NCRC results in an estimated savings of $500K per year. Over time, this cost savings will offset lease rate increases at NCRC.
Annual emission reduction
Co-generation reduces CO₂ emissions by 9,400 metric tons of carbon dioxide (MT CO₂) per year. This is equivalent to:
- 1,971 average sized vehicles’ annual CO₂ emissions
- 1,407 average sized households’ annual CO₂ emissions
- Planting 7,705 acres of trees