HIGH-PERFORMANCE MATERIALS Forging Materials with the 'Right Stuff' for Tomorrow's Energy Systems 36 The power generation industry has a tremendous need for improved cost-effective materials that can withstand today's aggressive service environments. The National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) is involved in several programs designed to improve efficiency and extend the life of electricityproducing power plants. ENERGY STORAGE Zinc-ion Batteries Are a Scalable Alternative to Lithium-ion 32 Researchers are looking for ways to improve the safety of battery energy storage solutions, along with making the process more economic and removing constraints on the supply chain. The use of zinc-ion batteries could be an important step forward as a cheaper and safer energy storage option. PROJECT FINANCE The Power Purchase Agreement in Transition The power purchase agreement (PPA) has long been an important aspect of power generation projects, and is becoming more important as a tool to support construction at a time when many energy developers are economically challenged. As more projects seek alternative funding, the PPA is evolving as well. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES Environmental Legislation and Stationary Gas Engines 36 Environmental regulations are among the drivers of technology innovation in the power generation sector. As equipment evolves, particularly as gas engines become more efficient, the materials needed to ensure those engines operate reliably and efficiently become more important. Lubrication is key, and power plant operators need to look at all their options when it comes to keeping those engines humming. WORKFORCE TRAINING Principles-Based Operations: A Military-Proven Method Applying military principles to a workforce environment can provide employees with a sense of shared responsibility. It also can explain the prevalence of former military members who work in the power generation space, where a team approach to operations can be critical to overall success. COMMENTARY Power Sector Faces Continued Financial Distress in 2021 By George Koutsonicolis, SOLIC Capital Advisors 48 44 42 40 38 42 FIND THE LATEST POWER NEWS AT POWERMAG.COM CONNECT WITH POWER If you like POWER magazine, follow us online for timely industry news and comments. Become our fan at facebook.com/ POWERmagazine Follow us on Twitter @POWERmagazine Join the LinkedIn POWER magazine Group and the Women in Power Generation Group 2 ■ Battle Brewing About California's Role in Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant Retirement ■ Vogtle Receives First Shipment of Nuclear Fuel ■ GE Hitachi Hits Milestone for SMR Design ■ Could Geothermal Energy Become the 'Sexy' Renewable? ■ RWE's 300-MW 'Grid Stability' Gas Plant Will Debut GE LM2500XPRESS Technology ■ Bipartisan Bill to Preserve Existing Nuclear Plants Clears Senate Committee ■ Continued Toll on Coal; More Companies File Bankruptcy ■ A Hopeful Narrative for the Nuclear Industry ■ Vineyard Wind Puts 800-MW Offshore Project on Hold ■ UK Undergoing 'Remarkable Shift' in Power Generation ■ Solar Farms Would Replace New Mexico Coal-Fired Plants www.powermag.com POWER | January 2021http://www.POWERMAG.COM http://www.facebook.com/ http://www.powermag.com