GE Vernova successfully operated its 7E aeroderivative gas turbine on 100 % green hydrogen at Duke Energy’s DeBary site in Florida. The turbine delivered up to 60 MW for a 30‑minute period, proving grid‑scale performance without natural‑gas backup. The demo integrates solar‑powered electrolysis, on‑site hydrogen storage, and turbine generation, showcasing a viable clean‑energy loop.
Key Highlights of the Florida Demonstration
Test Performance and Output
The DeBary facility completed a full‑load test in late December 2025. The 7E turbine ran exclusively on hydrogen produced on‑site, delivering up to 60 MW for a continuous 30‑minute window. This result confirms that the turbine can sustain grid‑scale output without reliance on natural‑gas fuel.
System Components and Operation
The demonstration system combines three core elements:
- Solar‑powered electrolysis: Two 1‑MW PEM electrolyzers generate hydrogen using electricity from the adjacent solar array.
- Hydrogen storage: A 2,500‑kg compressed‑hydrogen tank stores the produced fuel for dispatch.
- 7E turbine conversion: The stored hydrogen feeds the turbine, which reconverts chemical energy into electricity during peak demand.
Duke Energy plans to commence full‑scale operation of the loop in spring 2026.
Technical Overview of the 7E Aeroderivative Turbine
The 7E is an aeroderivative design derived from aircraft‑engine technology, known for rapid start‑up and high power density. It has been upgraded to accept a blend of natural gas and hydrogen and, as demonstrated, can operate on pure hydrogen. This marks the first certification of an aeroderivative turbine for 100 % hydrogen fuel.
Energy Transition Impact
The successful test illustrates how green hydrogen can be integrated into existing gas‑turbine fleets, extending the utility of legacy assets while cutting carbon emissions. By linking solar generation, electrolysis, storage, and turbine output, the system provides a longer‑duration, high‑energy‑density alternative to battery storage for grid reliability.
Challenges and Future Steps
Despite the breakthrough, several challenges remain:
- Electrolyzer water consumption: PEM units require roughly 3.2 gallons of filtered water per kilogram of hydrogen produced.
- Round‑trip efficiency: The combined electrolysis‑storage‑turbine cycle is less efficient than direct battery storage.
- Cost scaling: Reducing the cost of green hydrogen production is essential for broader adoption.
GE Vernova and Duke Energy will monitor turbine performance over the coming years, collecting data on reliability, emissions, and economics. Positive results could lead to replication at larger sites or adaptation for dedicated aviation‑fuel production.
Conclusion
The DeBary demonstration represents the first real‑world operation of a 100 % hydrogen‑fuelled aeroderivative turbine, bridging solar power, green hydrogen, and proven gas‑turbine technology. While the immediate benefit is enhanced grid reliability in Florida, the underlying technology offers a glimpse of how hydrogen could power both the electric grid and the next generation of aircraft, positioning GE Vernova’s 7E turbine as a pivotal component of the hydrogen economy.
