RWE npower renewables has been given the go-ahead for a multi-million pound replacement of a key upper section of the Coedty reservoir pipeline, safeguarding the future of the Dolgarrog hydro electric power station.
RWE npower renewables has been given the go-ahead for a multi-million pound replacement of a key upper section of the Coedty reservoir pipeline, safeguarding the future of the Dolgarrog hydro electric power station.
The application has been approved by both Conwy County Borough Council and Snowdonia National Park planning authorities, and will replace a vital stretch of the pipeline at the existing hydro plant.
The upgrade works will prolong the lifespan of the pipeline, and could offer important new supply chain opportunities for Welsh businesses, supporting the construction of the new facilities.
Project Director, Oliver Wilson said: “I am delighted our plans have received consent from both planning authorities meaning we can now proceed with the works and secure the operating future of this important asset in North Wales.
“The existing over ground pipeline was built in 1924 and is reaching the end of its working life. The challenge has been to find the right solution to balance our engineering needs with the sensitive ecology of the area.
“A buried pipeline replacement for the upper section and surge pipeline was in the end considered to be the safest, most practical and cost effective solution to secure the operating future of the scheme.”
The approved plans cover:
- Replacement of the upper pipeline from Coedty reservoir to the top of the incline with a new buried pipe;
- Replacement of the surge pipe and surge chamber (part of the pipeline safety system);
- Replacement of the valve houses at the dam and at the incline; and
- Associated road works, track upgrades and tree felling to aid access to the site.
RWE npower renewables has now begun the tender process for the design and construction of the upgraded pipeline. Enabling works are expected to begin in the autumn with the main works starting in 2013.
The Coedty pipeline is situated in an upland area on the north-eastern fringes of Snowdonia National Park above the Conwy Valley in North Wales. The pipeline draws raw water from Coedty reservoir, which lies above the village of Dolgarrog, approximately 7 miles south of Conwy and 4 miles north of the market town of Llanrwst.
Industrial works were drawn to this location to capitalise on the high rainfall and mountainous area to supply enough water to generate hydro electric power, before electricity was available from the national grid. Today, 39 people work on the site.
RWE npower renewables is one of the largest renewable energy developers and operators in Wales. It operates an important portfolio of hydro-electric power stations in North Wales with the combined generation capacity of around 43megawatts (MW).
Contact:
Mark Fleming, Senior PR Officer
RWE npower renewables
Tel: 07825 608096 / 01793 474173
Email: mark.fleming@rwe.com.
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