Possible collective mechanisms for optimization of expenses on maintenance of medium and high capacity gas turbine engines in Russia

As a consequence of the recent deregulation in the electrical power production industry in Europe and worldwide, there has been a shift in the traditional approach to ownership of power-generating assets, in particular, during the period of their operation. The current market conditions have seriously challenged gas turbine plant operators (GTO) to reduce their operating costs. The paper analyzes the current global situation with organization of service of power-generating medium to high capacity gas turbine engines (GTE). The patterns are presented of management of the lifecycle of these sophisticated and capital-intensive items depending on the level of their development by generating companies and emergence of necessary operational competencies. Analysis of the record of operation of service companies and operators of thermal power plants in the world’s different countries and regions proves that competition is possible in the field of servicing high-capacity powergenerating GTE. The next stage of strengthening of the market is consolidation of GTOs with the purpose of optimization of operating costs. The record of the European Union in creating collective mechanisms to cost optimization of gas turbines maintenance is described. The paper recommends a scheme of a similar mechanism in Russia (including the new Association of Operators for Service Organization (AOSO)) taking into account peculiarities of the state management of power engineering and electrical power generation, as well as the existing sectoral and cross-sectoral professional associations opportunities. The basic objectives of the AOSO are presented and discussed. The paper also reviews organizational forms of AOSO, which are currently the most efficient in the Russian energy sector. A conclusion is drawn that, at present, this is the Ministry of Industry and Trade that should play the key role in development of collective mechanisms for optimization of GTE operation expenses.

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