FEDA Completes €2.5M Refurbishment of Encamp Hydro Plant, Boosting Capacity by 1,000kW

FEDA has completed a €2.5 million refurbishment of its three hydroelectric groups at the Encamp central plant, ensuring reliable operation for another 20 years while boosting total capacity by 1,000kW.

The project, spanning five years from 2020, addressed machines dating back to the 1930s—two built in 1934—with some original parts never previously replaced. Technicians fully disassembled each unit to check alternators, insulation, high-wear parts and injectors, swapping out components weighing over 30 tons. It began with an inspection of the newest group 3 in 2020, material preparation in 2021, a one-year pause for custom fabrication on the older units, and full work thereafter. Group 1 wrapped up in December and is now undergoing extended testing at higher loads to identify any issues, while all three operate at full capacity. Group 2 delivers increased power, and group 1 achieves better efficiency with lower water use thanks to upgraded injectors.

FEDA staff managed the effort, backed by technical and personnel support from Électricité de France (EDF). These groups supply 15-20% of Andorra's electricity, focusing output on peak-price import hours using the Engolasters reservoir to keep consumer rates competitive. The power gain equals Grau Roig solar plant production.

At Wednesday's presentation in the Hydroelectric Museum, Operations and New Infrastructure Director Jordi Travé and workshop chief Serafí Vall reviewed the outcomes. Travé described the units as "practically new," stressing their 100% renewable energy during costly import periods and the 20-year extension. He noted the overhaul not only replaced century-old pieces but also markedly improved efficiency.

Looking ahead, FEDA prioritises the Maià peak wind farm technical design while progressing a preliminary study for a new L'Ospitalet hydroelectric plant with EDF and France's water agency. This aims to lift winter output, when demand doubles or triples summer levels and import prices spike. Travé emphasised the project remains in early avantproject phase, with investment costs and partnership terms still under evaluation.