Ecuador power generator plans hydro park overhaul

Studies are expected to begin next quarter for the potential overhaul of hydroelectric plants in Ecuador’s Cotopaxi province.

The work will target five plants operated by state power generator Empresa Eléctrica Provincial Cotopaxi (Elepco) that total 15MW: Angamarca (358kW), Catazacón (1MW), El Estado (2MW), Illuchi I (5MW) and Illuchi II (6.5MW).

The plants have been in operation for over 30 years, with Illuchi I having come online 72 years ago, according to Elepco.

“There are components that have already exceeded their useful life, there is technological obsolescence and difficulties in the acquisition of electromechanical spare parts,” the company said, highlighting the lack of dedicated maintenance, which has led some units of the plants to stop operating.

The studies will focus on the prefeasibility for the plants’ modernization and environmental updates, as well as proposing a new management model.

Elepco has invited consultants to submit proposals for the 240-day contract, with a decision due in October.

The company also operates substations, subtransmission lines and distribution infrastructure and its 2024 investment budget reaches US$65mn.

Source: Elepco