Strengthening Puerto Rico’s Energy Infrastructure with SGT-800

Recognizing the urgent need to stabilize the grid, the Puerto Rican legislature passed the “Puerto Rico Energy Public Policy Act,” intent on making a resilient and reliable energy system.

Genera PR, the private operator of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, is now assisting this effort by selecting Siemens Energy to provide two SGT-800 gas turbines to replace existing equipment at Costa Sur Power Plant in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico. The refurbishments are part of a broad island-wide power generation project aimed at developing a more resilient and modernized electrical system for the island in the aftermath of devastating damage from Hurricane Irma and Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Fiona in 2022.

Strengthening energy infrastructure in Puerto Rico

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Here at Genera PR, we are very optimistic about having chosen Siemens Energy for the new peaking units project at our Costa Sur Power Plant. We are confident that Siemens Energy's proven track record and team of technical experts will lead to the successful execution of this initiative.

Our commitment to modernizing and transforming Puerto Rico’s energy generation system remains steadfast, and this project marks a significant step toward stabilizing the grid while enhancing flexibility and operational efficiency. We are dedicated to using federal funds efficiently and transparently, and this project is a testament to that commitment.

The power plant is a peaker plant, which operates primarily in times of high electricity-power demand. Designed to rapidly start up, peakers are critical to match rising electricity demand and maintain grid balance. They are typically simple-gas turbine facilities that burn natural gas or liquid fuels such as diesel, fuel oil, biodiesel (incl. HV100), kerosene, and others.

The new power plant will help stabilize the grid and provide additional power during times of heightened demand on the island. Together, the two Siemens Energy SGT-800 gas turbines will provide approximately 100 megawatts.

The turbine combines a simple, robust design, for high reliability and easy maintenance with high efficiency and low emissions. It is an increasingly attractive option for power generation in North America. In 2025, more SGT-800 gas turbines have been purchased in North America than in any previous year.

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Our gas turbines are designed for flexible, fast starting operation, making them perfectly suited for peaking power and grid support. Critical infrastructure projects like this one help provide reliable power to citizens when they need it most.

Quick Facts About Puerto Rico’s Energy Landscape*

Limited fossil fuel production – consumes about 70 times more energy than it produces
Relies primarily on imported fossil fuels to meet energy needs
Petroleum-fired power plants provided 62% of Puerto Rico’s electricity generating capacity, followed by natural gas (24%), coal (8%), and renewables (7%)
No connection to the mainland United States grid – can’t receive power from other states

*U.S. Energy Information Administration

Siemens Energy SGT6-5000F gas Turbine Performance Enhancement Solution

Strengthening energy infrastructure in Puerto Rico

Building a resilient grid

Winnie Irizarry

The role of peaking power plants

Luke Baker

Costa Sur power plant refurbishment timeline