Modernisation scope for EPS’s Bistrica plant
Serbian state utility EPS is preparing a €65 million modernisation of the 104 MW Bistrica hydropower plant. The project targets extending the operating life of the 65-year-old facility by at least another three decades. EPS said the overhaul will keep the plant’s existing installed capacity while improving efficiency and reliability.
Expected output and financing package
EPS expects annual production to rise from around 330 GWh to as much as 350 GWh, depending on hydrological conditions. Financing has been secured through a European Investment Bank loan and a €7.5 million grant from the Western Balkans Investment Framework. EPS is in the final phase of contractor selection for the works.
Equipment upgrades and control system replacement
The complete modernisation is expected to take no more than four years once construction begins. Both generating units are set to receive new generators, while turbines, governing equipment and intake gates will be replaced. The project also includes reconstruction of the 35 kV switchgear.
Analogue relay controls will be replaced with a modern distributed-control system. The upgrade will be supported by a new central SCADA platform, along with additional automation and monitoring equipment. The focus is on increasing production from the same water resource while lowering maintenance requirements and extending the life of one of EPS’s oldest hydro assets.
