American Hydro expands its business to Central America

American Hydro, a Wärtsilä company, will enhance the efficiency and performance of the Mollejon hydroelectric generating plant, located in Belize, Central America. The company was awarded a contract in September 2017 by Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL) to upgrade the plant with high quality hydroelectric solutions and technical support. Fast delivery and experienced technical installation support will ensure earlier return on investment for the project.

Belize Electricity Limited is the main distributor of electricity in Belize. The Mollejon plant, located on the Macal River about 110 kilometres southwest of Belize City, is equipped with three hydroelectric turbines. In the first stage, American Hydro will overhaul the G1 unit and replace old turbine components to increase overall plant efficiency. The agreement includes new turbine runners, stationary turbine seals, wicket gates and rehabilitation of essential operating components as well as technical support of disassembly, installation and commissioning.

The contract was awarded to American Hydro due to its ability to expedite the turbine upgrades, thus minimising plant downtime. Installation and commissioning of the G1 unit is set to be completed in June 2018, prior to the Belize rainy season. The Mollejon plant has a nameplate capacity of 25.2 MW with an annual energy production of approximately 125 GWh.  

“Mollejon provides American Hydro the opportunity to showcase our capabilities and expertise with the upgrade and optimization of existing hydroelectric equipment. This is a unique opportunity to expand and demonstrate the American Hydro and Wärtsilä Hydro business capability to customers in Central and South American markets,” says Mr. Alan Maciejewski, American Hydro Project Manager for Mollejon.

Caption: Mollejon hydroelectric generating plant is located in Belize, Central America.