| Q&A
integrating expertise across multiple engineering fields, we can efficiently address complex challenges, streamline project execution, and deliver innovative, tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing hydropower infrastructure today, and how does KGSI address them? One of the biggest challenges facing hydropower infrastructure today is the aging of existing facilities, many of which were built 50 to 100 years ago. These assets require ongoing inspection, maintenance and upgrades to ensure safety, reliability and efficiency. Additionally, the industry faces increasing regulatory requirements, the need for modernization to integrate with renewable energy sources and challenges related to climate change impacts on water availability. KGSI addresses these challenges by offering
comprehensive engineering, inspection services and turbine performance testing, including: Structural, geotechnical, mechanical, electrical and hydrology and hydraulics expertise to assess and improve aging infrastructure FERC Part 12 inspections and condition assessments to ensure compliance and risk mitigation
Advanced engineering solutions to enhance dam safety, turbine efficiency and overall system performance
By having a full range of engineering disciplines in-house, KGSI provides integrated solutions that help utilities and facility owners extend the life of their hydropower assets, navigate evolving regulations and support the sustainable future of hydropower.
Can you highlight a recent notable project demonstrating KGSI’s expertise in dam safety, structural assessments, or power optimization? KGSI has recently been working with our clients to provide condition assessments of powerhouses and generators to determine structural integrity and identify any repairs or upgrades required. Combined, KGSI in the past year has inspected 21 powerhouses and 30 generators. These recommended upgrades can result in power optimization. Regarding dam safety, KGSI recently completed two FERC Part 12 Comprehensive Assessments along with condition assessments, PFMA and Risk Analysis, leveraging our in-house FERC-approved Independent Consultant to meet regulatory compliance.
How is KGSI helping utilities and agencies optimize their power generation and grid integration strategies? KGSI’s experts provide alternatives, working with the client to create a design selection matrix incorporating critical selection criteria for initial cost, lifecycle costs, life expectancy, long-term maintenance costs and various risk and reliability factors. This alternative analysis can be used in many applications but serves as a basis to begin design, knowing the decision moving forward was based on sound selection criteria. Our approach to these types
of analyses is to work with key stakeholders, whether they are landowners, operation and maintenance (O&M) staff or our clients’ staff. We work with our clients to determine the correct level of risk and critical selection criteria when determining these alternatives. In reviewing any existing assets, KGSI uses a range of general condition assessments observed through visual inspection and testing. We prepare a list of equipment attributes, including, but not limited to, its age, anticipated remaining life, upcoming anticipated maintenance, immediate needs, longer- term needs and eventual replacement options. These assessments are tabulated and presented to owners to identify the anticipated cash flow of asset maintenance and replacement requirements. Additionally, KGSI provides turbine performance
testing. Turbine performance testing can help optimize power generation by identifying inefficiencies and ensuring peak operational efficiency. Our tests can detect performance losses due to wear, misalignment or sediment buildup by conducting precise flow, head and efficiency measurements, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime. Improved turbine efficiency directly translates to higher energy output, reduced operational costs and extended equipment lifespan. Performance testing supports regulatory compliance and provides data-driven insights for system upgrades, helping hydro facilities maximize power generation while maintaining environmental and economic sustainability.
With KGSI’s continued growth, are there any plans to expand further in the US or internationally? Yes. KGSI plans to expand further in the US, particularly toward the East, where hydropower remains a significant energy source. Our existing collaborations with clients, such as the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, highlight the strategic importance of this region.
Expanding our presence in the Eastern US will enable KGSI to better serve these and other clients, address the unique challenges of aging hydropower infrastructure and support the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.
What advice would you give to organizations looking to modernize their hydropower infrastructure? Our advice is to take a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that considers the facility’s entire lifecycle, including safety, efficiency and environmental impact. We recommend conducting thorough assessments beginning with detailed condition assessments of existing infrastructure, including FERC Part 12 inspections and structural, mechanical, electrical and geotechnical evaluations. This will provide insights into critical areas requiring upgrades or repairs. And lastly, collaborate with experts and engage
with experienced engineers to leverage and share knowledge to develop sustainable solutions.
https://kgsgroup.com/
www.waterpowermagazine.com | May 2025 | 39 References
https://www.eia.gov/ todayinenergy/detail. php?id=61883
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