Technology Overview

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power plants generate electricity by using combustion engines to convert fuel energy into electrical energy. Fuel, which can be in liquid or gaseous form, is combusted within the engine to produce mechanical energy that drives a generator.

This technology is typically deployed in small- to medium-scale units, with multiple engines operating in parallel to achieve the desired capacity. The generated electricity can be used locally or supplied to the grid.

Technical Characteristics

ICE power plants are highly flexible and can be rapidly installed. They are commonly used in distributed power systems, back-up generation, or applications requiring fast start-up and flexible load-following capability.

The nominal net electrical efficiency is approximately 45.5%, depending on fuel type and engine technology. Compared to gas turbines or large-scale thermal power plants, efficiency is generally lower, but this is offset by fast start-up, short response time, and operational flexibility. The capacity factor can vary depending on the application, ranging from continuous operation to standby or peak-load use.

Investment costs are approximately 0.91 million USD/MW, generally lower than large-scale power generation technologies. However, operating and fuel costs may be higher, particularly when fossil fuels are used. In the energy transition, ICE power can play an important complementary role by providing flexible generation to support the integration of variable renewable energy sources.

Application in Vietnam

In Vietnam, this technology is used in certain distributed power systems and back-up power applications, particularly in areas without stable grid access.