Pichlern Run-of-River Power Plant

*Source: ENTSO-E Production 2017

The Pichlern power plant was built between 2004 and 2006. The tailrace area of the Pichlern power plant was deepened over a length of 800 metres in order to increase the head to 5.66 metres. Two Kaplan bulb turbines generate an annual average of around 13 GWh of electricity.

Turbines and generators: The two identical Kaplan turbines have an expansion power output of 1,322 kW. The three-phase synchronous generators have a nominal output of 1.6 kVA and are coupled to the turbines via spur gear units. The Pichlern power plant operates on a level-controlled basis. It was designed for autonomous operation without on-site monitoring personnel, so that all operating procedures are carried out fully automatically. The power plant is operated remotely as required from the Ternberg power plant.

Transformers: A three-phase block transformer with a nominal output of 3,150 kVA raises the voltage from 690 V to 30 kV. During normal operation, the power plant’s own requirements are covered by the own requirement transformer from the main generators or via a reserve feed from the 30 kV main voltage rail of the grid.

Weir system: A hydraulic unit actuates the gravel gate and opens it when a flow rate of more than 100 m³/s has to be guaranteed. The weir hydraulics are designed with small cross-sections for a high working pressure. The headwater closures of the intake tubes have been designed as gantry dam panels.