Two gas-fired units are in operation at the Franken site. They have a net output of 823 megawatts and were commissioned in 1973 and 1976. Unit 2 has an upstream gas turbine with 58 megawatts which can be operated as a quick-start unit on a standalone basis, or from which the hot exhaust gases are used in the steam generator as combustion air for gas-firing.

This technology is a precursor to today’s well-known, highly efficient combined cycle power plants. This makes the Franken power plant the “mother of all combined cycle plants”.

If necessary, the plant can also be operated with light fuel oil. Since gas and heating oil prices are high, Franken is only used as a peak-load and reserve power plant.

The grid connection is made via the Gebersdorf substation at the 110 KV high voltage level to the power grid of the distribution grid operator Bayernwerk. In addition, a traction current converter with 2 x 30 megawatts output is operated by the plant, and district heating is provided for regional suppliers.

The Franken power plant was considered as system-relevant by the Federal Network Agency.