ANDRITZ has been selected by Norwegian utility Hafslund to upgrade one of the turbine-generator units at the Vamma hydropower plant, Norway’s largest run-of-river facility. The modernization project will improve the performance of unit 11, increasing its capacity by 22%, from 100MW to 122MW.
The upgrade includes dismantling, reassembly, testing, and commissioning, along with new component supply and model testing. ANDRITZ will install a new oil-free Kaplan runner with a water-filled hub to improve efficiency and environmental sustainability. At 7,300mm in diameter, it will be one of the largest runners in Norway. The company will also provide a new turbine governor and stator, which will be assembled on-site.
The project, valued in the low double-digit million euro range, was confirmed in mid-2024. Assembly of the new stator is set for the first half of 2026, with the fully upgraded unit 11 expected to be operational by early 2028.
Vamma, owned by Hafslund, is equipped with 12 turbine-generator units and has a total installed capacity of 343 MW. The plant generates an average of 1,580 GWh of electricity annually.
“This project is a milestone in our close partnership with Hafslund. By upgrading the Vamma 11 unit, we’re not only boosting its efficiency and capacity, but also extending its operating life to ensure that it continues to support the country’s ambitious renewable energy targets,” said Kjetil Toverud, Managing Director of ANDRITZ Hydropower in Norway.
