Investing in low carbon energy, SSE Renewables is looking to upgrade its hydroelectric assets across Scotland and has engaged Servelec Controls to help deliver this valuable programme aimed at securing this renewable technology well into the future.
The UK-listed energy company has a strategic focus on renewables, with flexible hydro playing a significant role in this vision. In order to assure the next 20 to 30 years of hydroelectric power, the proposed scheme will see SSE Renewables and their supply chain partners undertake obsolescence management of all the company’s hydroelectric assets, with a critical part of this programme comprising the upgrade of control and safety systems.
Thanks to a strong history with SSE Renewables, and following a rigorous prequalification tender process, Servelec Controls has been awarded a five-year framework contract to help SSE Renewables deliver its programme of works. The systems integrator has since begun planning for its first project under the framework: Orrin Hydroelectric Power Station, which has a capacity of 18MW.
As part of SSE Renewables’ upgrade of Orrin in northern Inverness-shire, Servelec Controls will replace the 17-year-old control system in order to overcome the potential issues of ageing equipment failure and discontinued spares, as well as create resilience through integrity, reliability and output improvements.
The award of both the framework and this first framework project, are testament to a customer focused approach by Servelec Controls. A record of delivering high quality solutions for all its customers is bred from investment in people with extensive software knowhow and technical expertise.
Ian Heywood, Programmes Lead Engineer at SSE Renewables explained: “Servelec Controls’ expert engineers have repeatedly demonstrated that they are able to deliver quality control solutions to improve our operations, on time and within budget. We’re delighted to have them on board for this upgrade programme and confident that they can help us achieve SSE Renewables’ vision of making renewable energy the foundation of a zero-carbon world.”
This framework offers Servelec Controls the opportunity to develop an even deeper understanding of SSE Renewable’s operations, assets and systems, therefore enabling the systems integrator to implement the most appropriate and effective upgrades specifically focused towards optimising performance, resilience and reliability.
Bryn Thomas Sales Director at Servelec Controls added: “Servelec Controls has built its reputation on establishing long-term relationships with its clients. As supply chain partners, we work as part of our clients’ team to provide continuous improvement. We are looking forward to a long and successful collaboration with SSE Renewables on this significant upgrade programme and helping them to achieve the security of supply of this valuable natural UK resource.”