Author(s): Ignacio Texeira
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Rehabilitation; Upgrade; Risks; Benefits; Energy; Cost; Simulation
Abstract: The Salto Grande Hydroelectric Complex is a binational hydroelectric power plant located on the border between Argentina and Uruguay, built in the early 80s, with an installed capacity of 1,890 MW and average annual generation of 8,500 GWh. As the plant has been operating for more than 45 years it is necessary to perform a full rehabilitation and the possibility of upgrading the turbines from 135 MW to 150 MW has been analyzed. From the point of view of power and energy, the advantage would seem obvious, increasing the available power to 2100 MW and making better use of excess water, however there are some disadvantages. Firstly, this type of power increase has associated design risks since the flow speeds are increased, increasing the risk of cavitation, and the size of the impeller hub is reduced, reducing the robustness of the parts. On the other hand, it also has an associated cost increase estimated at 110 MUSD since certain parts that could be kept must be replaced, such as the impeller hub, the shaft, and the entire power train, excitation transformers, switches, step-up, etc. This paper analyses the impact and benefits of repowering on the Uruguayan Electric System using the simulation tool SimSEE, comparing the impact at country level of cases of renewal with and without repowering. Given that the Uruguayan share of the energy generated by the CHSG is distributed by UTE, both companies owned by the Uruguayan state, it is understood that it makes no sense to make an individual analysis as a company and the analysis should focus on the costs and investments that the Uruguayan state must make to supply the demand in the different situations.
Year: 2024