NETL has collaborated with industry and university experts to launch the world-class Advanced Virtual Energy Simulation Training And Research Center (AVESTAR™) Center. The Center was established as part of DOE’s initiative to accelerate the widespread commercial deployment of advanced energy technologies that have increased efficiency and reliability, superior operational flexibility, better controllability, enhanced safety, and reduced environmental impact.

The AVESTAR Center offers a full-scope, high-fidelity, real-time dynamic simulator with operator training system (OTS) for a coal-, biomass-, or petroleum coke-fueled power plant using integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) technology with 90% pre-combustion CO₂ capture, as well as low sulfur, mercury, and NO_x emissions. The IGCC dynamic simulator provides highly realistic training on normal base-load power operation, plant startups, shutdowns, power load shedding, and fuel switching, as well as abnormal situations involving equipment malfunctions and failures.

By providing hands-on, simulator-based training, the AVESTAR Center aims to develop a workforce well prepared to manage the complex and large-scale operation and control of commercial power generation plants. With support from the NETL-Regional University Alliance (NETL-RUA), the Center also promotes NETL’s education and applied research collaboration mission. The NETL-RUA partnership leverages AVESTAR facilities, dynamic simulators, and other resources by making them available to researchers and university students.

Mission Statement

Provide comprehensive operator training and innovative collaborative energy research opportunities by bringing together state-of-the-art dynamic simulators, virtual reality technology, and energy experts dedicated to the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of advanced power generation systems that also protect the environment.