Refurbishment |
GE Vernova’s Norway Services Workshop located in Lier. By combining the generator service with the forthcoming refurbishment program of the hydropower plant, Hafslund Eco aims to optimize downtime and streamline the overall operational efficiency of the facility. “We are happy to be working with GE on this
Above: MVA water-cooled generators are used by the Aurland 1 hydropower plant in Norway Courtesy of Hafslund Eco
project,” said Tormod Kleppa (Director of Projects), Hafslund ECO. “The Servicing of our Aurland 1 is an important project for us and we are glad to count on GE to deliver the new Rotorpoles while the refurbishment program is undergoing.” The Aurland 1 hydropower plant, constructed between 1969 and 1989, represents Hafslund Eco’s largest power plant and ranks as the third-largest hydropower facility in Norway with 840MW capacity. Norway heavily relies on hydropower, which accounts for over 90% of its total power generation. The country’s unique geography, characterized by high mountain plateaus, abundant natural lakes, steep valleys, and fjords, offers immense potential for hydropower development. Hydropower has been a cornerstone of Norway’s industrialization since the late 19th century and continues to serve as the backbone of its power system. Pascal Radue, Hydro Power President & CEO of GE
Vernova, expressed his enthusiasm for the project and the broader role of hydropower in Norway’s energy transition, stating: “Norway has been an inspiring example of how hydropower can contribute to the energy transition by delivering a large amount of renewable energy in the very long term. Today, the average age of the fleet is about 50 years, opening up for refurbishment needs, that will help extend the lifetime but also increase even more the efficiency of hydropower plants, without any need to re-build a dam. We are thrilled to partner with Hafslund ECO on this service project.”
Work on dams As part of an extensive modernization initiative for
the Vioreau dam in France, the Loire-Atlantique departmental council recently revealed that it has granted the contract for lot 2 (which involves waterproofing the foundation and implementing drainage solutions) to Soletanche Bachy. Situated in the town of Joué-sur-Erdre, the Vioreau dam serves a primary purpose of supplying water to the Nantes-Brest canal. It plays a crucial role in storing water throughout the winter season, facilitating the replenishment of low water levels during periods of navigation.
Below: Vesconite has supplied two lantern rings for the Hoover dam
Originally constructed in 1834, this gravity dam stands at a height of 13.7m and spans a length of 131.6m. It forms a reservoir with a capacity of approximately 7.5 million cubic meters. Commencement of Lot 2 activities will be
undertaken subsequent to a partial reduction in the reservoir’s water volume. The tasks associated with the upstream segment of the dam encompass: Establishing a grouting curtain that extends to a depth of 20 meters within the bedrock beneath the structure. This procedure will employ the GIN method to enhance subsoil impermeability where it interfaces with the ground/structure and bolster the mechanical properties of fractured zones. Installing a secant jet-grouting column cutoff wall, which will reach depths of around 6 meters within the central area where an alluvial zone has been identified.
28 | September 2023 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
In relation to the downstream portion of the dam: Implementing a drainage network utilizing oriented drains that will be directly drilled into the masonry using the Hi’Drill technique. These drains will encompass varying azimuths to optimize effectiveness.
Throughout the tendering process, project designers from the Eurofrance design office facilitated the creation of 3D blueprints depicting different work stages. This enabled a comprehensive assessment of machinery movements and interactions. The technical department meticulously examined the injection methodology, drawing insights from recent experiences in rock injection projects. Commencement of injection and jet-grouting began in Mid-April and are expected to be complete at the later end of this year.
In August, on India’s 77th Independence Day celebrations, it was announced that a JV of SMEC-Stucky has secured a role as the Engineering & Management Consultant for Phase II & III of the country’s Dams Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP). Commissioned by India’s Central Water Commission
(CWC), this project signifies a significant step forward in enhancing the safety and operational efficacy of designated dams throughout the nation. With joint financial support from both the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the implementation of DRIP Phase II and III will span across 19 states and involve three central agencies, notably including the CWC. Focusing on bolstering institutions, the team’s efforts will be dedicated to providing comprehensive management consulting aimed at integrating enduring operational and asset maintenance capabilities throughout the system. The project’s duration spans a decade. The project’s scope encompasses four components: Revitalization and enhancement of designated dams and their related components. Strengthening of institutional frameworks for dam safety.
Incidental revenue generation to ensure the sustainable operation and maintenance of dams. Effective project management.
Anticipated outcomes from the project encompass heightened safety standards, augmented water availability, and a diminished threat of floods, thereby fortifying communities against the repercussions of climate change. “This project is aligned with SMEC’s mission
to create infrastructure that stands the test of time, safeguards precious resources, and propels India’s development agenda to new heights,” said Mallikarjunagouda Patil, Director of SMEC, India. “As we celebrate India’s 77th Independence Day, we are honoured to have been chosen for this prestigious project that aligns perfectly with our vision of building a sustainable future. Our Joint Venture is excited to contribute our expertise and technical acumen to rehabilitate these vital dams, ensuring their long-term viability and the safety of surrounding communities.” Smt. Debashree Mukherjee, Special Secretary, Central
Water Commission, New Delhi, added: “This partnership comes at a crucial juncture as we work together to ensure the safety and functionality of our nation’s dams. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of this endeavour on the communities and the environment.”
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53
