Toshiba is investing approximately US$25M to more than double the manufacturing output of its hydroelectric generators at the plant, which is operated by its majority-controlled Chinese subsidiary Toshiba Hydro Power (Hangzhou) Co Ltd (THPC).
THPC was established almost four years ago and has produced more than 80 turbines and generators for the local market. The company is 80% owned by Toshiba with the remaining stake held by Sinohydro Corp.
The first phase of the expansion programme involved building a state-of-the-art generator coil shop, taking the area for the activity from 3500m2 up to 9000m2. The shop also produces poles and core stacks for generators.
The investment programme also includes expansion of the assembly and machining shop, and construction of a hydraulic research laboratory with a model testing facility.