The modernization of the Shkopeti hydropower station for the customer Kürüm International SHA was successfully completed by Voith Hydro in January 2024. The hydropower station, dating back to the 1960s, underwent comprehensive renewal over a period of two and a half years, with commissioning occurring ahead of schedule and earlier power generation than planned. Targeted modernization measures also resulted in a 13 percent increase in performance. The outstanding feature of this project is the innovative seven-blade runner, which is rare in the industry.

The Shkopeti reservoir, located approximately 35 kilometers north of Tirana ­ in central Albania, supplies water to the Shkopeti hydropower station, where two Kaplan turbines are in operation. The reservoir impounds the Mat River, the sixth longest river in Albania, at an elevation of 102 meters above sea level. With a length of approximately nine kilometers, the reservoir extends to the dam of the Ulza ­reservoir, which forms the uppermost dam on the Mat River.

Performance increase from the original 24 MW to 27 MW
The Shkopeti hydropower stat­ion, first commissioned in 1963, required modernization after 60 years of operation. Voith Hydro, in colla-­boration with its subsidiaries Sintaksa (a Voith Hydro company) and Elin Motoren (a Voith Group company), successfully modernized the existing power station while simultaneously increasing the capacity from the original 24 MW to 27 MW. From Voith Hydro’s perspective, the biggest ­challenge was adapting to the existing structure and embedded components – a task that was successfully accomplished by the experts.

Timeline and technical specifications
The project was initiated in May 2021 and was completed in January 2024. The performance increase was achieved through a new hydraulic design and ex­cellent collaboration between Voith Hydro, Elin Motoren, and Sintaksa, who jointly provided complete power sta­tion equipment, including two vertical Kaplan turbines with 13.5 MW each, generators, and electrical equipment.

Technological innovation and customer satisfaction
The turbine supplied by Voith Hydro with its complex design distinguishes the Shkopeti hydropower station as a technological flagship project. The delivery was not only timely but also smooth – from assembly to commissioning. The modernized turbines are designed to handle a water flow rate of 40.60 m³/s and a head of 36.20 meters, resulting in an installed capacity of 13.5 MW each. The power station can achieve an extended output of 14 MW in standalone operation. Due to specific hydraulic conditions, this is only achievable with one unit in operation at a time.

Voith Hydro
Voith Hydro not only delivered Kaplan turbines with innovative hydraulic design but also significantly contributed to the performance enhancement of the hydropower station. The scope of supply also included the tailored renewal of cooling water and drain­age systems, as well as the provision of the HPU (Hydraulic Power Unit). Special emphasis was placed on replacing only what was necessary to ensure efficiency and sustainability. The expertise gained from Voith ­Hydro’s globally successful reference projects was also leveraged purposefully and effectively in this project.

Elin Motoren
Elin Motoren played a crucial role by ­supplying the generators for the Shkopeti ­hydropower station. The customized generators were designed to efficiently harness the increased power output of the station.

Sintaksa
Sintaksa was responsible for the electrical equipment. The company provided comprehensive electrical infrastructure essential for the smooth operation of the modernized ­hydropower station. This included the installation of switchgear, transformers, and other electrical components to interconnect the entire facility and maximize energy efficiency.

Energy autonomy and environmental friendliness
Albania, as one of only four countries worldwide whose energy is generated 100 % from renewable sources, sets a clear example of energy autonomy and environmental friendliness with the Shkopeti hydropower station. Despite the low per capita CO2 emissions, the country has only utilized about one third of its enormous hydropower potential – a circumstance that projects like Shkopeti are supposed to change.

Summary and Outlook
With the modernized Shkopeti hydropower station, Voith Hydro has not only achieved a technological feat but also made a significant contribution to Albania’s sustainable energy supply. The enhanced performance, complex design, and timely implementation make this project a prime example of Voith Hydro’s expertise and that of its subsidiaries. It represents a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable future for Albania.