Hidroelectrica begins tests on a group from Porțile de Fier

Hidroelectrica announces the completion of a major stage in the maintenance works at hydro unit no. 1 at the Portile de Fier I Hydroelectric Power Plant. The project, launched in July 2023, involved the complete dismantling of the hydro unit, the transport of components to the UCMH factory in Reșița for expertise and repairs, followed by the reassembly and testing of the rotor-turbine assembly at the factory.

Karoly Borbely, CEO of Hidroelectrica, was present at the Portile de Fier I HPP for the last checks before the start of the commissioning tests and stressed the importance of this work:

“This project, with a high degree of complexity, demonstrates the ability of Hidroelectrica together with the other two companies in the group, UCMH Reșița and Hidroserv, to execute extensive technical works, essential for the safety and performance of the national energy system. We are delighted with the progress made and are glad that we were able to meet the deadline for completing the works, which is February 14, 2025.”

The works contract was awarded to SSH Hidroserv, which subcontracted the execution to the UCMH factory in Reșița. Here, the turbine rotor – with a nominal diameter of 9,500 mm – benefited from the execution of extensive activities, including specialized machining, possible only with the help of large-sized machine tools, unique in the country.

“The HA1 project from HPP Portile de Fier I is a true premiere for Hidroelectrica, as it involves a complex and multidisciplinary collaboration of all its companies,” added Karoly Borbely.

Factory activities, including tests with the fully equipped rotor, took place between December 2023 and September 2024, and refitting at Portile de Fier I began in October 2024. On February 14, 2025, the works were completed, with fluid tests and checks on the integration of all auxiliary systems already underway, a step that marks the entry into the final phase of commissioning.

Complex tests will be carried out next month, with this process set to end on March 14, 2025. These checks aim to ensure the operation of the aggregate at optimal parameters and confirm the reliability of the entire system, the company also says.

Hidroelectrica is the largest 100% green energy producer in Romania and the main provider of technological services required in the National Energy System. The company currently operates 209 power plants, with a total installed capacity of 6,482 MW. In addition, the Crucea wind farm is also located there.