GE Vernova to Revamp Saluda Hydro Power Plant in Lexington County
In a move that’s sure to make a splash, the fine folks at Greenville-based GE Vernova Inc. have landed a new contract with Dominion Energy South Carolina. They’ll be working on modernizing two hydropower units at the historic Saluda Hydro power plant, which has been quietly humming along on the banks of the Saluda River in Lexington County for nearly a century.
Creating a Sustainable Future
The modernization project isn’t just a facelift for the 90-year-old plant; it’s a comprehensive upgrade aimed at boosting performance, reliability, and flexibility. With power generation being the heart of our energy needs, GE Vernova is committed to ensuring that the Saluda Hydro plant continues to deliver sustainable and dependable electricity for years to come.
Currently, about 70% of Dominion Energy’s fleet uses GE Vernova’s cutting-edge technology, which is significant because it generates enough electricity to power more than 7 million households across the United States. That’s a lot of light bulbs!
Improving Water Quality with Innovative Technology
But wait, there’s more! The project won’t just be all about the electricity; there’s a big focus on protecting our natural resources. The modernization includes innovative aerating turbine technology that significantly improves the water quality of the Saluda River by raising dissolved oxygen levels. This new tech will help increase oxygen levels in the water, benefiting aquatic life and preserving the beautiful ecosystem that South Carolina boasts.
Iris Griffin, the Vice President of Generation at Dominion Energy, spotlighted the importance of this investment, saying, “Our current turbines at Saluda Hydro have performed safely and successfully for more than 90 years. Investing in their replacement will help maintain the facility’s long-term reliability and, most importantly, continue to safely serve our customers for many years to come.”
A Glimpse into History
The Saluda Hydro power plant has quite the legacy. It officially opened back on December 1, 1930, and has provided a steady flow of energy, supporting local industries from day one. Its very first leap into modernization came in 1971 when a fifth hydropower unit was added, boosting energy output to an impressive 206 megawatts (MW).
Originally constructed to support the booming textile industry in nearby Columbia, the dam also plays an essential role in flood control and recreational activities. And hey, let’s not forget about the stunning Lake Murray, which spans 48,000 acres and is a hotspot for fishing, swimming, and various outdoor adventures.
The Road Ahead
As part of the project, GE Vernova’s responsibilities also include the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of new aerating turbines to replace the existing Unit 1 and Unit 3 turbines. Additionally, the Unit 3 generator will undergo much-needed rehabilitation. The exciting news? The first unit is slated for retrofitting by 2027, bringing fresh life to this storied plant.
Hydropower’s Importance
According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Energy, hydropower makes a solid contribution, accounting for nearly 27% of the total utility-scale renewable electricity generation and 5.7% of overall utility-scale electricity generation in the U.S. That’s a testament to how vital it is in achieving our clean energy goals.
So, as GE Vernova rolls up its sleeves to give the Saluda Hydro power plant a much-needed upgrade, the team is not just focused on electricity generation. They’re thinking about the longevity of the facility, the quality of the river water, and, ultimately, the well-being of ecosystems and communities that rely on this vital resource. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds!
