NamPower plans hydropower scheme along Lower Orange river

HYDROPOWER
NamPower plans hydropower scheme along Lower Orange river

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/nampower-plans-hydropower-scheme-along-lower-orange-river-2010-08-30

By: Chanel de Bruyn
30th August 2010

Namibian power utility NamPower has called for consultants to assist
it with aspects related to the proposed development of the 100 MW run-
of-river Lower Orange Hydroelectrical Power Scheme (LOHEPS).

The scheme would entail the development of up to nine small
hydroelectric power stations, ranging from 6 MW to 12 MW, along the
Lower Orange river, which had an estimated power generation potential
of between 80 MW and 120 MW.

The power utility noted that LOHEPS would be used to divert the flow
of the river through canals and tunnels into water turbines to produce
electricity.

Between 66 km and 72 km of tunnels and 5 km of canals would have to be
constructed, while about 300 km of access roads to reach the
hydroelectric plants would also have to be built, as part of the
proposed scheme.

Further, three additional substations closer to the new hydropower
stations would have to be built.

NamPower has invited submissions from companies or joint ventures to
provide consulting services for four work packages, the first of which
would entail aerial surveying, geotechnical surveying and consultancy
services for the tunnelling and canal works.

Further, the utility was also seeking consultancy services for the
electrical works, mechanical works and civil and building works
aspects of the project; as well as expertise with regard to financial
and commercial model auditing; and expertise with regard to
hydrological auditing.

Interested parties had until September 17 to submit their expressions
of interest to NamPower.

NamPower is also expanding its Ruacana hydropower station.

Earlier this month, it reported that a fourth, 80 MW, turbine would be
commissioned at the power station in March 2012. The first three units
of the power station, producing 420 MW, had already been commissioned
in 1978.

NamPower is investing billions in new power generation capacity and
transmission networks, driven by surging demand.

The country�s national average demand for electricity is exceeding 320
MW, and increases to 450 MW during peak periods.

Edited by: Mariaan Webb
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