Europe

Danfoss Editron supplying new generators for 2.6-MW Siikakoshi small hydropower plant

Danfoss Editron is providing two new electric generators to KSS Energia of Finland for use in its 2.6-MW Siikakoski small hydropower plant.
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Danfoss Editron supplying new generators for 2.6-MW Siikakoshi small hydropower plant

Danfoss Editron is providing two new electric generators to KSS Energia of Finland for use in its 2.6-MW Siikakoski small hydropower plant.

The company says these generators will “play a key role in doubling the operational lifespan” of Siikakoski, which is located in Kouvola, Finland.  

The Siikakoski plant has been in operation since the early 1960s and was taken over by KSS Energia in 1976. Its existing machinery dates to the 1960s and needs to be fully replaced to keep the plant running, according to a Danfoss Editron press release.

The plant’s upgrade will include two new generators, as well as modernizing the turbines, transmission, sluice gates and auxiliary equipment, according to Kari Dansk, KSS Energia’s head of production.

As part of the upgrade, Danfoss Editron is delivering two 1.3-MW, 125 rpm electric generators and two 600 kVAr reactive power compensation units. The new generators feature direct drive permanent magnet technology, which Danfoss Editron says means extremely low maintenance is required once the plant is operational. Danfoss Drives is providing the project’s reactive power compensation system.

“As the facility is so old, there is limited space for all the machinery, which is why we chose to work with Danfoss Editron as its generators are extremely compact, robust and lightweight, while delivering high efficiencies,” Dansk said.

The first 1.3-MW generator was installed at the end of 2018, and another 1.3-MW unit is expected to be commissioned by the end of 2019.

The Siikakoski project forms part of Danfoss Editron’s new renewables market offering. This

Danfoss Editron has previously worked at another of KSS Energia’s hydro plants, the 1.15-MW Verla facility.

KSS Energia produces and develops services for its energy network customers and sells electricity and energy expertise also outside the Kouvola region. Eighty-one percent of the company’s electricity production and 69% of its heat production is based on renewable energy sources.