This press release on the Rolls-Royce web site is entitled Rolls-Royce Generator Delivered For Most Powerful Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System In Aerospace.

This Rolls-Royce picture shows the generator installed on a test bed.

These are the first three paragraphs of the press release.

The generator that will be at the heart of the most powerful hybrid-electric aero power and propulsion system in aerospace has arrived for installation at our specialist testbed.

The generator, and related power electronics, was delivered to the newly-renovated Testbed 108 in Bristol, UK, from the Rolls-Royce facility in Trondheim, Norway, having completed an extensive development test programme. It will form part of the 2.5 megawatt (MW) Power Generation System 1 (PGS1) demonstrator programme, for future regional aircraft. In addition to hybrid-electric propulsion, the generator could also be used as part of a "more-electric" system for larger aircraft or within future ground or marine applications.

PGS1 forms an important element of our sustainability strategy, which includes developing innovative electrical power and propulsion systems.

I must say that as an engineer this 2.5 MW generator really excites me, as I see so many possibilities.

  • I am fairly certain, that the generator can be powered by hydrogen, to create a true zero-carbon power generator.
  • Rolls-Royce mention aerospace, ground and marine applications.
  • The physical size must be an advantage, when it comes to some applications.
  • The gas-turbine technology at the heart of the generator has been well-proven in the Lockheed Super Hercules.

But I do note in the press release that there is no mention of hydrogen or rail for which the generator must be eminently suitable.

  • Rolls-Royce subsidiary; mtu are one of the leading companies, who power large rail locomotives.
  • 2.5 MW is ideal for many rail locomotives.
  • The small size must help integration into a rail locomotive.
  • My calculations show that the generator and a hydrogen tank could be fitted into a typical modern rail locomotive.
  • As electric transmissions can be used, the locomotive could also use electrification.

A lot of these arguments would also apply to the very large trucks used in the mining industries and ships of various sizes.

Conclusion

This Rolls-Royce 2.5 MW Generator will have lots of applications.