Hydro power

Hydropower Services

Hydropower Capabilities

According to the National Hydropower Association (NHA), of which Gracon is a member, adding generation to existing non-powered dams is one of the most efficient ways to add megawatts to the grid. Approximately 3% of dams in the US have hydropower capabilities ¹. Gracon has worked on several of these projects with many different turbine types: Pelton, Francis, Kaplan, Bulb, Z-turbine, S-turbine, etc.,

“Gracon’s knowledge of the work provided excelled expectations to MHPS-AEE & NYPA. This knowledge and professionalist was key in providing guidance and unerstanding to the client. Gracon also improved on the construction schedule due to inedfficiencies exposed by other NYPA contractors and labor at the jobsite.”

~Ryan Lovette, Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems America

 

Hydropower Construction & Hydroelectric Rehabilitation

Hydroelectric systems are made up of several key components including a turbine, generator, inlet valve, governor and excitation. Gracon is commonly known for successfully rehabilitating hydropower units that increase the reliability and output of the facility.

The current interest in hydropower is focused on hydroelectric rehabilitation and developing new hydropower systems at existing dams. Gracon does both frequently. Only 3% of the nation’s 80,000 dams are currently generating electricity ². Through hydroelectric rehabilitation and adding new hydropower systems, we can help to increase this green power system, increase efficiency, and increase the dam’s hydroelectric generation capacity.

Common Challenges and Innovative Solutions

Years of experience in hydropower construction, along with highly trained individuals with hydro-specific backgrounds, make challenges a non-obstacle for the Gracon hydropower division. We have listed a few common challenges that we provided successful solutions for:

Challenge: Significant safety concerns working in and around water, and on power systems.

Solution: To overcome these safety concerns, Gracon adheres to our Zero Harm Core Value and completes JHA’s for every task prior to executing work. We hold all subcontractors to the same standards, so the entire team is on the same page. In addition, we empower every employee the ability to stop work on a job if they have concerns about the safety of an activity.

Challenge: Specific information on existing installation is commonly insufficient or missing.

Solution: Members of the hydro division are often times the only ones around that have worked on these facilities in the past and therefore can bring insights to projects that others can’t.

Challenge: Owners often want to preserve the historical value of hydropower facilities.

Solution: During our rehabilitation project for the City of Auburn in New York, Gracon needed to keep the historical value and appearance of the existing aesthetics. To combat this challenge, we used artisan stonemasons to preserve the historical look of the walls while ensuring the structural integrity required for the new roof.

Challenge: Clients often have operational problems with existing equipment

Solution: Gracon performs an inspection with modern laser tracker technology that provides a baseline of existing conditions. We incorporate these readings into our plan for refurbishment and restore the machines back to operational excellence.

Gracon LLC can provide expertise in all aspects of hydropower rehabilitation/construction projects. With our in-house capabilities and multiple divisions at Gracon, our team can perform all aspects of a hydropower project. We will build a powerhouse, excavate the river bottom, bore a tunnel for a penstock, and install a turbine/generator and controls package. Collectively, Gracon’s team can formulate innovative solutions and execution methods.

¹ Facts you should know about hydropower, National Hydro Association

² Converting Non-Powered Dams, National Hydro Association