September 4, 2024 – CTS has been awarded the contract for the design and control system integration of a 1.5 MW hydroelectric facility. This small gravity penstock high-pressure feed project marks a significant milestone in sustainable energy development in Southern Idaho, highlighting CTS’s expertise in innovative renewable energy solutions.
The 1.5 MW hydroelectric facility will harness the natural flow of water through a gravity-fed penstock system, utilizing high-pressure water to generate clean, renewable electricity. This project aims to provide a reliable and sustainable energy source while minimizing environmental impact.
Stace Campbell, President and Chief Technical Officer of CTS, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We are excited to be selected for this important initiative. Our team is committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that advance the transition to renewable energy. This hydroelectric facility exemplifies our dedication to sustainability and technological excellence.”
CTS will oversee several critical aspects of the project:
- Design and Engineering: Developing a comprehensive design for the hydroelectric facility, ensuring optimal efficiency and reliability. This includes the layout of the penstock system, turbine selection, and upper and lower powerhouse architecture.
- Control System Integration: Implementing advanced control systems to monitor and manage the facility’s operations. CTS will integrate state-of-the-art automation technologies to ensure precise control over water flow, turbine speed, and power output, maximizing efficiency and safety.
- System Testing and Commissioning: Conducting rigorous testing and commissioning processes to ensure the facility operates at peak performance. This includes detailed assessments of the control systems and overall plant functionality.
A significant aspect of CTS’s involvement is the integration of innovative technologies to enhance the hydroelectric facility’s performance. Key innovations include:
- Advanced SCADA Systems: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems will provide real-time monitoring and control, allowing operators to manage the facility remotely and respond swiftly to any operational issues.
- Predictive Maintenance: Utilizing predictive maintenance tools to foresee potential equipment failures before they occur, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Energy Optimization Algorithms: Implementing sophisticated algorithms to optimize energy production based on water flow rates, environmental conditions, and demand patterns.
The new hydroelectric facility is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 1,200 homes, significantly contributing to the local energy supply. By using gravity-fed water flow, the project minimizes environmental disruption, preserving aquatic ecosystems and maintaining water quality.
Stace Campbell, further highlighted the environmental benefits, saying, “Hydroelectric power is one of the most sustainable forms of energy. This project will not only provide clean energy but also set a precedent for future renewable energy initiatives.”
With the project set to commence in the next quarter, CTS aims to complete the design and integration phases by mid-2025. This project not only reinforces CTS’s leadership in the renewable energy sector but also underscores the company’s commitment to innovative, environmentally friendly solutions.
The successful execution of this hydroelectric facility will pave the way for more small-scale renewable energy projects, demonstrating the viability and importance of harnessing natural resources responsibly.