Following the successful completion of a pre-feasibility study in 2014, SMEC is to undertake the feasibility study for the next phase of the 12MW Baime hydropower project in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea.

The Baime project consists of a low height diversion weir, a 3 pkm long headrace pipe, a surge tank, a 6 pkm long penstock pipe and a surface power station housing Pelton turbines.

Under the contract awarded by PNG Forest Products, SMEC’s services include: procurement of subcontractors for the management of topographical survey and geotechnical investigations; re-appraisal of the pre-feasibility study; optimisation of project layouts; and undertaking of a full bankable feasibility study.

This project continues SMEC’s relationship with PNG Forest Products, with SMEC having previously completed the pre-feasibility study; feasibility study; Environmental and Social Impacts Assessment (ESIA); and the detailed design of the 9.4 MW Upper Baiune HPP.