Hafslund names ANDRITZ to modernize unit at Vamma hydropower plant in Norway

Vamma hydro
(photo courtesy ANDRITZ)

Norwegian utility Hafslund has selected ANDRITZ to upgrade one of the plant’s turbine-generator units, increasing its capacity by 22 MW.

ANDRITZ said this upgrade will improve the performance and efficiency of Vamma’s Unit 11. Its capacity will be boosted by 22%, from 100 MW to 122 MW. The work to be performed includes dismantling, reassembly, testing and commissioning, as well as model testing and supply of new components.

The scope of supply includes a new oil-free Kaplan runner with a water-filled hub, which will improve efficiency and contribute to the environmental sustainability of the plant. With a diameter of 7,300 mm, it will be one of the largest runners installed in Norway, according to a release. ANDRITZ will also supply a new turbine governor and stator, which will be assembled on site.

The order, worth a low double-digit million euros, was placed in mid-2024. On-site assembly of the new stator is scheduled for the first half of 2026. Commissioning of the fully upgraded Vamma Unit 11 is expected in early 2028.

Owned by Hafslund, one of Norway’s leading power producers, Vamma is equipped with 12 turbine-generator units, including 10 Francis and two Kaplan turbines. It has a total installed capacity of 343 MW and supplies an average of 1,580 GWh of electricity per year.

“This project is a milestone in our close partnership with Hafslund. By upgrading the Vamma 11 unit, we’re not only boosting its efficiency and capacity, but also extending its operating life to ensure that it continues to support the country’s ambitious renewable energy targets,” said Kjetil Toverud, managing director of ANDRITZ Hydropower in Norway.

ANDRITZ offers plants, equipment, systems and services for the pulp and paper industry, the hydropower sector, the metals processing and forming industry, pumps, solid/liquid separation in the municipal and industrial sectors, as well as animal feed and biomass pelleting. ANDRITZ Hydro supplies electromechanical equipment and services for hydropower plants, with an installed fleet of 489 GW.

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