GE Vernova to Revamp Saluda Hydro Power Plant in Lexington County
Greenville, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as GE Vernova Inc. has just landed a significant order with Dominion Energy South Carolina to modernize two hydropower units at the historic Saluda Hydro power plant. Nestled on the beautiful Saluda River in Lexington County, this power plant has been a reliable source of energy for nearly a century.
A New Chapter for Hydropower
The modernization project, which aims to upgrade the plant’s functionality, reliability, and performance, is set to extend its operational life. According to a press release, these improvements will not just revamp the plant; they will also enhance its ability to maintain the water quality of the Saluda River. This is primarily done through the introduction of GE Vernova’s innovative aerating turbine technology, which increases the dissolved oxygen levels in the water, thereby protecting aquatic life and preserving the state’s valuable resources.
Building on a Strong Foundation
GE Vernova’s partnership with Dominion Energy is not new. In fact, they share a long-standing relationship across three distinct business segments: Power, Wind, and Electrification. Currently, around 70% of Dominion Energy’s generation fleet relies on GE Vernova’s advanced technology, capable of meeting the energy needs of over 7 million U.S. households.
Why Modernization Matters
“Our current turbines at Saluda Hydro have performed safely and reliably for more than 90 years,” said Iris Griffin, Vice President of Generation at Dominion Energy. “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 Historical Landmark
The Saluda Hydro plant has an illustrious history. It first began operations on December 1, 1930, and has played a crucial role in supporting South Carolina’s economy, particularly the textile industry, by providing affordable and reliable energy. The facility includes five Francis hydropower units and has a total generating capacity of 206 megawatts (MW). The construction of the dam also created the expansive Lake Murray, which spans 48,000 acres and provides recreational opportunities for countless residents, including fishing, swimming, and paddling.
What’s Next?
As part of this exciting project, GE Vernova’s duties will involve the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of new aerating turbines to replace the aging units. The retrofit for the first turbine is expected to be completed by 2027, paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient energy future.
Hydropower’s Bright Future
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, hydropower currently generates about 27% of the total U.S. utility-scale renewable electricity and approximately 5.7% of the total utility-scale electricity generation. With projects like the one at Saluda Hydro, South Carolina is leading the way in expanding clean energy resources.
Conclusion
This modernization initiative not only enhances the operational capabilities of the Saluda Hydro power plant but also showcases the dedication to protecting our natural resources and sustaining the environment for future generations. It’s a win-win for the community and a great heartening move towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
