GE Renewable Energy, a global leader in advanced technology and services focusing on wind, hydro, solar, hybrid power generation and grid solutions, announced that it has booked a contract with Angat Hydropower Corporation to rehabilitate the 218 MW Angat hydropower plant which is one of the largest hydropower plants located in the Philippines. Angat hydropower facility supplies more than 90% of Metro Manila’s potable water needs and supports the irrigation of 25,000 hectares of farmlands in the provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga. This contract is the first major rehabilitation program since the facility was commissioned in 1967. Currently, hydropower accounts for around 5% of the Philippines’ Energy needs.
GE Renewable Energy’s hydro teams in Europe and the Americas will be responsible for the supply of two new 50 MW Francis turbines, four new 50 MW generators as well as three new upgraded auxiliary turbines and generators. They will be in charge of the assessment of the penstock, the powerhouse and a new control system will also be provided.
GE Renewable Energy will work closely with a local partner, Desco, that will install and commission the Angat plant. Desco is a Philippine Energy service company that provides integrated solutions to geothermal projects, oil and gas projects, and industrial plants.
The rehabilitation will be conducted in the best conditions for the customer to limit a power outage of the plant as much as possible, a crucial pre-requisite for Angat Hydropower Corporation as the dam plays a strategic role for the country. Once fully upgraded in 2023, the power output of the plant will be increased by around 4% bringing it to 226.6 MW. This rehabilitated plant will provide an additional and reliable source of electricity in the Philippines and secure water needs for the population.
(Source: GE Renewable Energy)