KGRA to develop Pa. energy recovery project

PRNewswire

LAKE FOREST — KGRA Energy LP, a developer of waste heat recovery power generation projects, will develop a pioneering waste heat recovery project in Pennsylvania to harness reciprocating engine exhaust heat.

KGRA and Appalachian Midstream Services, LLC, a subsidiary of Chesapeake Energy Corporation, have agreed to build and install a customized 2MW waste heat-to-power system. Chesapeake is the nation’s second-largest producer of natural gas and will work with KGRA’s subsidiary, Liberty WHR Partners LLC, to install the alternative energy project at one of its Marcellus Shale gas gathering compression facilities in Bradford County, Pa.

KGRA’s system will convert waste heat from a series of compressor engines into retail grade electricity. The power can be used on site and/or sold back into the grid by KGRA. Two megawatts is enough electricity to power over 1,600 homes in Bradford County.

“KGRA is pleased to have been selected by Chesapeake, a company that views waste heat recovery as a realistic way to increase efficiencies utilizing an emissions-free power source,” said Jason Gold, KGRA Energy’s chief executive officer. “We look forward to breaking ground early next year and building a long term-partnership with Chesapeake.”

KGRA will begin installation of the power generation project as early as the first quarter of 2012.

“We view this as a trailblazing opportunity for not only Chesapeake, but for the midstream industry, to convert a heat byproduct into emissions-free electric power,” said J. Mike Stice, Chesapeake’s senior vice president — natural gas projects and president of Chesapeake Midstream Development. “Chesapeake is known to develop and champion new technology, and likewise supports novel technology applications such as KGRA’s that can create a visible, sustainable impact in our business and in our community.”