Hydro-electricity has long contributed to Wales’ renewable energy mix, with more than 275 projects located across the region, and the Welsh Government recently announced a new grant scheme that offers 100 percent relief on business rates for community schemes with a rateable value of up to £50,000.
Equally, and as UK Feed-in Tariffs continue to be phased out, existing reservoir sites can offer opportunities for the UK to continue to build out its hydro capacity.
Llys y Frân is a raw water storage reservoir, with a capacity of nearly 10,500 Ml. Dulas was appointed EPC contractor by Welsh Water for the project, and was charged with the design, procurement, installation and commissioning of the hydro generator before it was handed over to Welsh Water.
Preliminary work at the site saw Dulas design and install a raw water supply line from one of the discharge regulators along the front of the valve house, requiring the construction of three concrete pillars for support. The main works comprised the installation of a new 250kW hydro-turbine and generator, and construction of a new power house building, discharge pipes and an automatic fail safe bypass valve and pipework.
In addition, Dulas added a telemetry function that enables remote control of the new turbine and its bypass system, as well as control of the reservoir spill to within 25mm.
“Dulas has long been a trusted supplier to Welsh Water, and our team has significant experience in the optimization of existing reservoirs and hydro infrastructure to fully develop their renewable energy potential,” said Crispin Angood, Senior Project Manager at Dulas.
“Having worked with Dulas on a number of our other operational hydro schemes, we were confident in their ability to maximize energy generationfrom the reservoir,” said Mike Pedley, Head of Energy at Welsh Water.
“The team once again delivered to a very high standard and, as the site islocated within a country park, it will serve as a showcase to educate thepublic on how a hydro scheme operates.”
