The influence of the technical condition of power equipment on the operating modes of CHP plants in a balancing electricity market

Abstract

Amid the ongoing transformation of power systems driven by increasing renewable energy integration, combined heat and power plants have become a critical flexible reserve ensuring grid stability and supply reliability. This study aims to comprehensively assess the impact of equipment technical condition on the capability of CHP plants to effectively function in the balancing electricity market. The research methodology encompassed analysis multi-year operational data analysis, expert inspections of main and auxiliary equipment, thermovision and acoustic diagnostics, and the development of a mathematical model for the equipment availability coefficient using exponential approximation methods to forecast degradation processes. Findings reveal that a substantial portion of equipment has been in operation for an extended period, resulting in reduced boiler efficiency, increased air in-leakage in the flue gas ducts, increased specific fuel consumption, and deterioration of the availability coefficient to below regulatory levels. The developed forecasting model demonstrates a consistent declining trend in the availability coefficient over the forecast horizon, creating significant risks for effective participation in the balancing market. A direct correlation between the availability coefficient and economic performance indicators has been established. The results confirm the necessity of transitioning from reactive to proactive reliability management through comprehensive equipment modernization and the implementation of digital technologies for forecasting technical condition, thereby ensuring CHP plant competitiveness and operational sustainability in market-driven power systems.