The US$385.5 million plant will have a generating capacity of 600,000 kW, which will be generated via two 300,000 kW generators. The first generator will be ready by the end of 2005. The other is scheduled for full operation in mid-June 2006.

According to SCIPCC general manager, Ji Yiping, the benefits to Shanghai will be twofold. “The generators will help ease the power shortage in an environment-friendly way. Almost no sulphur will be discharged into the air. The generators will also be more efficient in energy consumption, as the energy will also be used to produce steam,” said Ji.

Shanghai’s largest power generator, Shanghai Electric Power Co Ltd will own the largest share of the plant, which many local officials hope will be the start of the major use of natural gas for power generation. If the officials get their way, natural gas will account for one-third of the city’s power use in the future.