| World news
Australia KCB appointed Owner’s Engineer on Paradise Dam project reconstruction Klohn Crippen Berger (KCB) has been appointed as the Owner’s Engineer for a project to build the new Paradise Dam wall near Bundaberg in Queensland. This collaborative effort between Sunwater and the Queensland Government marks a pivotal step towards ensuring water security and bolstering the Bundaberg Water Supply Scheme. The Paradise Dam, a cornerstone of the
region’s water management system, serves as a crucial reservoir for both agricultural irrigation and urban consumption. Spanning over 600km of channels and pipelines, the Bundaberg Water Supply Scheme sustains diverse agricultural activities and provides essential water resources to local communities and industries. In 2019, following an assessment of Paradise Dam that was prompted by damage incurred during flooding in 2013, the dam wall was lowered to ensure the safety of downstream communities. The assessment had revealed safety risks attributed to the roller compacted concrete properties and construction approach. In 2021, the Queensland Government committed to reinstating the full capacity of the dam, and extensive testing and analysis was undertaken with that intent. However, the testing results confirmed the existing dam could not be repaired to full capacity, nor could it provide assurance of water security for its intended design life. Constructing a new dam wall downstream of the existing structure will restore the operational capacity and provide water security for the future. Consequently, plans have been set in motion
to construct a new dam wall downstream, with the aim of reinstating operational capacity and fortifying water reserves for future generations.
Georgia Georgia’s largest hydropower plant set for upgrade with EBRD and EU backing The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has announced it is providing a sovereign loan of €28 million to facilitate the modernization and rehabilitation of the Enguri hydropower plant, the largest electricity facility in Georgia. This initiative is complemented by a grant of €7.05 million from the European Union (EU). The funding, directed to Engurhesi LTD,
the plant’s operating company, is slated to address critical issues concerning the structural integrity of the Enguri dam, alongside essential repairs to the underground tunnel and penstock. These measures aim to enhance the plant’s operational reliability and ensure a more sustainable power generation and grid system. Moreover, the investment will be used to help minimize water leakages within the headrace tunnel while unlocking opportunities
for additional renewable energy production. The allocated funds will also facilitate the construction of vital infrastructure, including roads for dam monitoring, improvements to electricity grid safety and reliability, and the establishment of a fish passage downstream of the Enguri dam. Constructed in the 1970s, the Enguri
hydropower plant, along with the Vardnili hydropower plants, forms a crucial energy complex that meets approximately 30% of Georgia’s electricity demands, playing a pivotal role in driving economic growth and stability. The EBRD’s involvement in the Enguri
hydropower plant’s rehabilitation dates back to 1998. This latest financial injection builds upon previous rehabilitation phases supported by the EU, aligning with the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy. This strategy, implemented through the Economic and Investment Plan, aims to fortify energy, digital, and transport connectivity in the Eastern Neighbourhood region, with particular emphasis on Georgia. Overall, the EBRD, in collaboration with its donors, has channelled approximately €205 million into supporting the Enguri plant since 1998, signifying a sustained commitment to Georgia’s energy sector. With the EBRD’s cumulative investments in
Georgia reaching around €5 billion across 290 projects, predominantly in the private sector, this initiative marks another significant step towards fostering sustainable development and energy independence in the region.
US
Major milestone on Klamath River dam removal project as initial phase of drawdown complete The Klamath River Renewal Corporation has announced the successful completion of the initial phase of drawdown, marking a significant milestone in the restoration efforts of the Klamath River. With the draining of Iron Gate, Copco, and JC Boyle reservoirs now complete, attention turns to the restoration process, paving the way for the forthcoming removal of three remaining dams later this year. The emptying of the reservoirs signifies a pivotal moment in the project, allowing the Klamath River to reclaim its natural course after decades of confinement. Analysis of the sediment accumulated behind the dams has shown it to be primarily composed of inert materials, posing no threat to human health. Mark Bransom, CEO of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, expressed enthusiasm for the progress: “Witnessing the resurgence of the river is truly inspiring. With the Klamath reconnected after a century, we are at the dawn of restoring one of the West Coast’s most prolific salmon-bearing rivers to its former glory.” As the reservoir footprints recede, efforts
are underway to restore the surrounding ecosystem. Working in collaboration with the Yurok Tribe, restoration crews have
begun planting millions of native plant seeds, kickstarting the process of rejuvenating the area.
However, the potential for partial refilling of
the reservoirs during spring runoff necessitates a comprehensive replanting strategy to stabilize soil and prevent erosion as the river reestablishes itself. Throughout the drawdown process, an
estimated 5 million cubic yards of sediment are expected to flow downstream, causing temporary water quality impacts. Nevertheless, measures have been taken to minimize environmental disruption, including the relocation of juvenile coho salmon by the Karuk Tribe fisheries department to off-channel rearing ponds.
Daniel Chase, Director of Fisheries, Aquatics & Design for RES, emphasized the resilience of native fish species amid challenging conditions: “Our native fish have adapted to survive various challenges, including periods of poor water quality. While the current turbidity levels may pose temporary challenges, fish populations have shown remarkable resilience in finding ways to persist.” Despite the anticipated short-term water quality impacts, the Klamath River Renewal Corporation remains committed to full compliance with regulatory permits and environmental safeguards throughout the restoration process.
China
Shenzhen prepares to welcome delegates from around the globe for WTC 2024r As urban populations continue to burgeon and the focus on connectivity, renewable energy, and environmental protection intensifies, the demand for underground infrastructure has reached unprecedented levels. In response to this global need, the Tunnel & Underground Works Branch of China Civil Engineering Society is inviting you to the highly anticipated World Tunnel Congress 2024 in Shenzhen, China, from April 19 to April 25. With the overarching theme “Tunnelling for
a Better Life,” the event promises to be a great place to share ideas and innovations, with 486 selected papers out of 792 international contributions slated for presentation across five simultaneous technical sessions and poster sessions.
Among the focal points of discussion
are cutting-edge excavation methods, advancements in lining, ground support, and water control technologies, as well as solutions for operating in extreme and challenging conditions. The WTC 2024 in Shenzhen promises to serve as a platform for the global underground construction community to engage in open discourse, professional networking, and knowledge sharing. For more information visit
https://www.wtc2024.cn/.
www.waterpowermagazine.com | March 2024 | 7
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