2.5 Research and Development
In 1998/99 Alstom Group spent EUR 515 million on R&D, equating to 3.7 per cent of sales. Alstom Power has 14 R&D laboratories located around the world.
Alstom Power frequently states its strong commitment to R&D. Over the past twenty years the company has been developing and refining its Pressurised Fluidised Bed Combined-cycle (PFBC) technology9. More recently the company says it has intensified its R&D activities to ensure that its products meet future demands for even greater efficiencies and environmental friendliness.
However, in respect of its GT35 gas turbine for the marine market the company does not undertake any research only some development work, nor has it engaged in research or development work relating to any other possible marine applications for new or existing turbines.
9 PFBC technology is based on combustion of coal in a pressurised fluid bed.
