In a notable move that underscores the evolving landscape of renewable energy, GE Vernova has clinched a significant contract with Dominion Energy South Carolina to modernize two hydropower units at the Saluda Hydro facility. This facility, nestled along the Saluda River just a stone’s throw from Columbia, South Carolina, has been a reliable source of power for almost a century. The modernization project, announced on December 2, aims not just to extend the operational life of the plant but also to enhance its reliability, performance, and flexibility.
This partnership is more than just a transactional agreement; it’s a testament to the long-standing relationship between GE Vernova and Dominion Energy, which spans across the company’s diverse business segments, including Power, Wind, and Electrification. Currently, GE Vernova technology underpins about 70% of Dominion’s generation fleet, showcasing the depth of their collaboration. It’s a strategic move that reflects the broader trend in the energy sector, where utilities are increasingly looking to modernize aging infrastructure to meet contemporary demands.
The Saluda Hydro plant, with its 207.3 MW capacity and five Francis turbines, has been operational since December 1, 1930. Originally constructed to support the region’s textile industry, it has evolved into a multifaceted asset that also aids in flood control and recreation, thanks to the expansive Lake Murray reservoir it helped create. Dominion Energy’s Vice President of Generation, Iris Griffin, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “Investing in their replacement will help maintain the facility’s long-term reliability and, most importantly, continue to safely serve our customers for many years to come.”
The modernization effort goes beyond just power generation; it also aims to bolster the ecological health of the Saluda River. GE Vernova’s advanced aerating turbine technology will significantly enhance water quality by increasing dissolved oxygen levels, which is crucial for protecting aquatic life. Frederic Ribieras, Hydro Power CEO for GE Vernova, highlighted the dual benefits of this project, stating, “This project shows that through both electricity generation and water management, hydropower can provide many benefits to communities, for a very long time.”
As the U.S. grapples with the realities of an aging hydropower infrastructure—approximately 100 gigawatts of installed capacity is nearing the end of its operational life—modernization projects like this one are not just beneficial but necessary. Ribieras pointed out the significant opportunities for such upgrades, which will enable the delivery of even more renewable energy into the grid and accelerate the energy transition nationwide.
Hydropower currently accounts for about 27% of the U.S. utility-scale renewable energy mix, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. As the demand for renewable energy continues to surge, the modernization of existing facilities like Saluda Hydro becomes increasingly vital. This project not only represents a leap forward for Dominion Energy but also sets a precedent for other utilities to follow suit. The energy sector is at a crossroads, and investments in modernization will play a crucial role in shaping its future, ensuring that hydropower remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape for generations to come.