UPM-Kymmene Oyj will invest more than €20m to modernise the Tyrväntö hydropower plant in Finland, aiming to improve operational flexibility, extend the facility’s lifespan, and reduce environmental risks.

The upgrade, led by the company’s energy division UPM Energy, will involve a comprehensive overhaul of both turbine-generator units at the plant.

Work will include the installation of new generator stators, refurbishment of existing rotors, and the replacement of turbine runner wheels. The current oil-lubricated system will be replaced with water-lubricated turbine runners, a change designed to significantly reduce environmental risks.

The project will also introduce new automation and control systems, including updated turbine controllers. According to the company, the digitalisation upgrades will improve optimisation, operation and maintenance of the plant.

In addition, dam safety will be enhanced through the installation of a new emergency automation system.

Teemu Kerttula, head of hydropower at UPM Energy, said the investment would support the long-term operation of the facility while improving its environmental performance.

UPM said the modernisation would allow the Tyrväntö hydropower plant to continue operating safely while meeting growing demand for flexible, low-emission electricity in Finland’s energy system.

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