| World news
OPG’s highest hydroelectric output in 15 years. Looking ahead, OPG plans to invest billions
in refurbishing its hydroelectric units across the province to support Ontario’s electrification and economic growth with reliable, low-carbon power.
Uganda Hydropower study confirms sustainable, low-cost power for Orom-Cross project Blencowe Resources Plc has completed an initial hydropower study for its Orom-Cross Graphite Project in Uganda, which confirms the availability of low-cost, renewable hydropower from the national grid. The study represents a significant step forward for the company’s commitment to sustainability and its goal of establishing a net-zero graphite operation. According to the study, two high-capacity power transmission lines from the Bujagali and Isimba Hydroelectric Dams, both located on the Nile River, connect to the regional grid near Orom-Cross. This infrastructure guarantees a reliable supply of renewable energy to the project. The study also highlights Uganda’s significantly lower hydropower tariffs compared to other African countries, positioning Orom- Cross as one of the lowest-cost graphite producers globally. With more than 1000MW of installed hydropower capacity in Uganda and additional projects underway, the country’s energy infrastructure is capable of meeting the power demand for Orom-Cross, which will start at 12MW in Phase 2 and rise to 40MW at full production.
Blencowe is now working to secure a
long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) to formalize the power supply for the project. Access to 100% renewable energy enhances the company’s ability to achieve net-zero production and positions Orom-Cross as one of the most environmentally responsible graphite projects in the world. This is expected to be a key factor in securing financing and off-take agreements, particularly with partners in Europe and North America, where sustainable supply chains are increasingly prioritized. Reliable and affordable energy is crucial as Blencowe progresses toward first production in 2026. With power costs being a critical factor for Phase 2 commercial-scale production, the study confirms that Orom-Cross can operate with a low carbon footprint, meeting global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. The access to hydropower further strengthens the project’s appeal to potential customers and investors looking for sustainable alternatives.
A unique aspect of the Orom-Cross
project is Blencowe’s plan to develop a beneficiation facility near the Karuma Power Station, approximately 190 km from the site, in partnership with a leading spheronised
purified graphite (SPG) producer. This facility will upgrade small fines graphite concentrate to 99.95% SPG, significantly increasing value and returns. The study’s confirmation of a reliable and cost-effective energy supply makes this downstream processing strategy feasible. The SPG technology, which eliminates the need for acid leaching, requires considerable energy, and the availability of hydropower makes the process both economically and environmentally competitive.
Blencowe is continuing discussions with
UETCL and the Ugandan government to finalize the PPA and incorporate renewable energy planning into its ongoing Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS). Additional studies will be carried out to assess power demand scenarios as Orom-Cross ramps up production. Cameron Pearce, Executive Chairman of Blencowe, commented: “Access to abundant, low-cost hydropower directly from Uganda’s national grid represents a major strategic advantage for Orom-Cross. This will enable us to operate sustainably with one of the lowest carbon footprints in the graphite sector while keeping production costs highly competitive.” He added: “We are committed to building one of the world’s most ESG-friendly graphite projects, and securing clean energy is a critical milestone towards that goal. With work now progressing to formalize a PPA, we are ensuring a long-term, sustainable power solution that aligns with our development timeline.” The integration of hydropower into the Orom-
Cross development plan reflects Blencowe’s strategy to establish a low-cost, high-purity, and net-zero graphite operation. As the company advances its DFS and project financing discussions, securing sustainable energy further strengthens Orom-Cross’s appeal to global investors and end-users.
Scotland SSE to invest £70 million to repower Lochay hydro station SSE will invest £70 million over the next three years to repower Lochay hydropower station in Perthshire, Scotland. The refurbishment aims to update the 45MW hydroelectric plant, commissioned in 1958, with modern turbine technology. The project is expected to extend the station’s operational life by at least 40 years, ensuring its continued role in the UK and Scotland’s renewable energy system. Located in Killin, Lochay Power Station is the largest and highest producing hydro plant in the Breadalbane scheme, generating approximately 170GWh of renewable energy each year. As part of the refurbishment, all main generation components at the plant will be replaced with efficient technology, boosting hydro power generation without increasing water volumes. The plant’s original 1950s building and civil infrastructure will remain intact. Construction work is scheduled to begin in
April 2025 and will create up to 80 construction jobs at its peak. SSE Renewables aims to support Scotland’s regional supply chain through the project. Robert Bryce, Director of Hydro at SSE Renewables, said: “The announcement of a £70 million refurbishment programme for Lochay Power Station further cements hydro’s vital role in the path to achieving UK and Scottish net zero carbon emissions targets, whilst supporting the wider industry supply chain. As with many of our hydro stations, Lochay has been a key part of the energy landscape for generations and this latest chapter will ensure it remains so for decades to come.” The repowering project is expected to be completed by 2028, coinciding with the power station’s 70th anniversary. Several contractors have been appointed, including Voith Hydro, which will act as the lead Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) contractor. Voith has previously worked with SSE on other projects, including Deanie and Grudie Bridge power stations, and was also the main M&E contractor for the recently completed Tummel replant project.
Global Infrastructure, based in Inverness, will handle site preparation and enabling works, while AJT Engineering Ltd from Aberdeen will manage the design and installation of a protective valve for the steel penstock. Stantec, with offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow, will lead the civil design aspects of the refurbishment. The contract to modernise the station’s
60-tonne crane has been awarded to Konecranes Demag UK, and scaffolding works will be carried out by McDonald Scaffolding from Invergordon.
Chile
Enel Chile begins commercial operations at Los Cóndores Enel Chile has officially begun commercial operations at the Los Cóndores hydroelectric plant, a 153MW facility designed to generate 100% renewable energy for the National Electric System. The plant, developed by Enel Generación Chile, is located in the high mountain range of the Maule Region. The project utilised specialized technology, including a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) and a Raise Boring Machine (RBM), to navigate geological challenges. These machines were instrumental in drilling a 12km intake tunnel and a 500m vertical shaft. The plant’s two Pelton- type turbines will process up to 25 cubic meters of water per second, generating approximately 350 GWh annually and reducing CO2 emissions by an estimated 70,721 tons.
Enel Chile General Manager Giuseppe
Turchiarelli emphasized the company’s commitment to energy stability and sustainability. “This milestone represents a significant achievement, showcasing modern hydroelectric technology and our dedication to renewable energy.”
www.waterpowermagazine.com | April 2025 | 7
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