Parsons Brinckerhoff’s expertise in power generation dates back to the early twentieth century, when the firm’s founder, William Barclay Parsons, championed hydroelectric power as an alternative to steam power. Our capabilities now encompass many major types of power generation, from conventional coal-, oil-, and gas-fired plants to newer technologies such as cogeneration.
Parsons Brinckerhoff has supported clients around the world on complex power generation projects. In Queensland, Australia, we served as Owner’s Engineer for the development of a 750-megawatt station that produces enough electricity to power one million homes—and incorporates design features that significantly improve efficiency. In Arizona in the U.S., we’re providing detailed engineering and construction support for a 500-megawatt plant designed for daily peaking operations. In South Africa, we’re providing engineering and project management support for a massive 4,800-megawatt facility that will be among the world’s largest power plants when it is completed.
Parsons Brinckerhoff is strongly aware of the role of conventional power generation in global climate change, and we are actively participating in research and project development activities to mitigate this effect. Solutions include carbon capture and storage, the development of more efficient thermal cycles, and exploitation of renewable energy. On power generation projects across the globe, Parsons Brinckerhoff engineers are constantly seeking cleaner, safer ways to meet the world’s growing demand for electricity.