Hidroelectrica announces the completion of a major stage in the maintenance works at hydro unit no. 1 at the Porțile de Fier I Hydroelectric Power Plant. The project, which started in July 2023, involved the complete dismantling of the hydro unit, the transport of components to the UCMH factory in Reșița for expertise and repairs, followed by the reassembly and testing of the rotor-turbine assembly at the factory.
“This project, with a high degree of complexity, demonstrates the capacity of Hidroelectrica together with the other two companies in the group, UCMH Reșița and Hidroserv, to execute extensive technical works, essential for the safety and performance of the national energy system. We are delighted with the progress made and are glad that we were able to meet the deadline for completing the works, which is February 14, 2025,” said Karoly Borbely, CEO of Hidroelectrica.
The works contract was awarded to SSH Hidroserv, which subcontracted the execution to the UCMH factory in Reșița. Here, the turbine rotor – with a nominal diameter of 9,500 mm – benefited from the execution of extensive activities, including specialized machining, possible only with the help of large-scale machine tools, unique in the country.
“The HA1 project of the Porțile de Fier I HPP is a real premiere for Hidroelectrica, as it involves a complex and multidisciplinary collaboration of all its companies,” added Karoly Borbely.
Factory activities, including tests with the fully equipped rotor, took place between December 2023 and September 2024, and refitting at Portile de Fier I began in October 2024. On February 14, 2025, the works were completed, with fluid tests and checks on the integration of all auxiliary systems already underway, a step that marks the entry into the final phase of commissioning.
“This stage was essential for ensuring the optimal operation of our facilities and for maintaining the peak performance of the national hydropower system. We thank everyone involved in this project and are confident that, by continuing these efforts, we will ensure sustainable and efficient electricity production, thus supporting the energy transition of our country,” said Dragoș Novac, manager of the Portile de Fier Branch.
Complex tests will be carried out next month, with the process set to conclude on March 14, 2025. These checks aim to ensure that the unit is operating at optimal parameters and to confirm the reliability of the entire system.
With an extensive portfolio of hydroelectric power plants, Hidroelectrica is a leader in clean electricity production and a key partner in Romania’s energy transition. The company is constantly investing in the modernization of its infrastructure and developing innovative solutions, aimed at supporting a sustainable, secure and efficient energy system.