VISAKHAPATNAM: The modernization works of the Machkund Hydropower project are likely to commence by the end of this year, as the management of the power project has already completed the reassessment life extension study of three out of the six units.
The power generation capacity is expected to increase from the existing 120 MW to 150 MW over the next three to four years once the modernization is completed.
The maintenance and power generation sharing from the Machkund Hydropower project, situated on the Andhra Odisha state border, will be equal, as both states have taken on the responsibility. Initially, the power generation was shared 70% to Andhra Pradesh and 30% to Odisha. However, this agreement was changed seven years ago, and now both states equally share the power.
The project survey was conducted by British Engineer Henry Howart in 1931 when the entire area was part of the Madras Presidency. Subsequent surveys were conducted from 1941 to 1943 to determine the power generation centre. Construction commenced in 1946, with the first unit being commissioned in 1955.
All the turbines and transformers were imported from foreign countries. However, acquiring equipment from foreign nations and dealing with ageing machinery has posed challenges for repairs and operations, according to a Genco employee at the centre.
The consistent water flow from the Duduma and Jolaput reservoirs has been advantageous for the Machkund power project. "Both states have now agreed to contribute equal funds for the modernization works. Reassessment and life extension studies have been conducted for three units, and the studies for the remaining three units are expected to be completed in the next two months, paving the way for the commencement of modernization," said AV Subrahmanyam, the superintendent engineer of the power project, in an interview with TOI.
As part of the modernization efforts, turbines, transformers, and other necessary equipment will be replaced, given that the hydropower project has been generating power for the past 69 years. The first three units are currently generating 17 MW each, while the second phase's three units are producing 23 MW each.
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