2024-09-23 13:58:23
The hydroelectric power plant Coca Elbow Sinclair The plant resumed operations on Monday, functioning normally after having to stop for nine hours last Friday due to a sudden increase in sediment in the rivers that supply the plant in Napo.
According to the latest measurements made by technicians, the level of suspended sediments in the water is 190 parts per million, six times less than the maximum operational limit of 1,200 parts per million.
This year has been particularly challenging for Coca Codo, as it has had to shut down 19 times due to sediment-related problems, according to a report by the company. the Ministry of Energy, who described this situation as unusual.
Under normal conditions, Sand traps retain sand, small stones and debris, but during periods of heavy rain, which cause rivers to rise, these sediments multiply and filters are not enough.
The plant must stop operations to avoid damage to its turbines and electromechanical equipment due to abrasion caused by stones and sand. Manual cleaning is sometimes required to remove sediment, logs and even dead animals, as the automatic system is not always effective, a deficiency previously pointed out by the Comptroller’s Office in a 2019 report.
When Coca Elbow Sinclair If the power plant ceases to operate, the country experiences a 25% reduction in power supply, which may lead to blackouts such as those experienced last Friday. According to the Ministry of Energy, seven of the eight turbines were active this morning, while unit number two was undergoing scheduled annual maintenance.
According to the National Electricity Operator (SENACE), Coca Codo Sinclair has contributed this morning with 34% of hydroelectric energy consumed by the country, a figure that represents an increase compared to 24% recorded the previous day in the afternoon.