The Life Extension and Modernisation (LEM) programme will include replacement of many of the major mechanical and electrical components of the project's four pump-generating units, and maintenance and repairs to virtually all other parts. The schedule calls for work on the first unit to be completed by May 2007, with the process repeated for the other three units beginning in the fall of 2007, 2008 and 2009. The entire program is to be completed in May 2010.
The work on each unit will require that the water level of the project's upper reservoir on top of Brown Mountain be reduced each fall, using cofferdams, to permit replacement of the spherical valves that control the flow of water into the power house.
'Blenheim-Gilboa has been a vital part of the Power Authority's generation mix since it began operation in 1973,' said Allen Schriver, NYPA's regional manager for Central New York. 'We want to ensure that it continues to run efficiently and effectively far into the future.'
