The techno-economic studies developed for this report were completed with the aid of architect/engineer (A/E) and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms that are heavily involved in the power generation sector, specifically in the area of engineering design and detailed project cost development. In addition, Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) technical staff provided review and comment to guide and inform the final data presentation. The scope of work included providing up-to-date technology overviews and current Class 4 cost estimates, according to American Association of Cost Engineers (AACE) guidelines. The specific technologies that are included in this 2016 edition were selected by funders in March 2016. They include the following research projects:
- Techno-Economic Evaluation of Reciprocating Engines
- Techno-Economic Evaluation of Microturbines
- Techno-Economic Evaluation of Energy Storage Technologies (focus on lithium ion batteries)
- Techno-Economic Evaluation of Combined Heat and Power Applications
- Coal to Natural Gas Plant Conversion Technical Update
- 2016 Update of Labor Rates, Productivity Factors, and Commodity Pricing
The results are presented in this report and will be fully reviewed during the Winter 2017 Generation Advisory meeting in February in Newport Beach, California. In addition, some technical topics presented in the report will be reviewed via webcast.