Voith to Modernize Zvornik Hydropower Plant in Serbia

HEIDENHEIM/St. PÖLTEN. Voith will extensively modernize the electro- mechanical equipment of the Serbian hydropower plant Zvornik, situated on the River Drina. Voith is replacing four generators and four Kaplan tur- bines, as well as the automation systems and the mechanical and electri- cal ancillary equipment. The contract signed with the customer in autumn 2013 is now coming into effect. The order volume amounts to EUR 65 mil- lion and it has been commissioned by the energy supplier Elektroprivreda Srbije.

“Voith supplied two turbines to Zvornik back when the plant was built 50 years ago. We are very pleased that we have once more gained the trust of Elektroprivreda Srbije to support the modernisation project. The Zvornik order will enable us to further consolidate our strong position in south-east Europe,” commented Dr. Leopold Heninger, Managing Director of Voith Hydro in St. Pölten, Austria.

As a result of the extensive rehabilitation, the Zvornik power plant will once again enjoy cutting edge technology. After the modernization the power plant’s performance will surge from 96 to 124 megawatts. The moderniza- tion of hydropower plants not only ensures much longer service lives but also improves performance and efficiency. It also reduces the maintenance costs for the operator in the long term.

Hydropower amounts to about 30 percent of Serbia’s energy production. However, there is still high potential to develop this technology in the coun- try: according to “The International Journal on Hydropower & Dams” more hydropower plants could be built with a total capacity of about 15,000 gi- gawatt hours.

On the importance of hydropower

Hydropower is the world’s oldest, most widespread and most reliable method of generating renewable energy. On a global scale it makes an essential contribution to ensuring a stable power supply and thus to eco- nomic and social development – both in industrialized countries and high- growth regions alike. In addition, hydropower plays a significant role in generating climate-friendly energy. Voith has been a leading provider of this technology since the early days of hydropower and continues to de- velop its offering on an ongoing basis.

About the company

Voith sets standards in the energy, oil and gas, paper, raw materials, transport and automotive markets. Founded in 1867, Voith now has more than 43,000 employees, a turnover of €5.7bn and sites in over 50 coun- tries, making it one of the largest family-owned companies in Europe.

Contact:
Kai Schlichtermann Communications
Voith Hydro Holding Tel. +49 7321 37-9748