AFRY's Bold Moves: Powering the Future and Navigating Change
September 10, 2024, 4:43 pm
In the heart of Sweden, a century-old hydropower plant is undergoing a transformation. The Untra hydropower plant, nestled in the municipality of Tierp, is set to rise from the ashes of its past. Fortum, the plant's operator, is modernizing its infrastructure, replacing three of its five generators. This is not just a facelift; it’s a leap into the future. The output will jump from 42 to 48 megawatts, boosting annual production from 270 to 300 gigawatt-hours. This increase is enough to power around 18,000 electrically heated homes.
AFRY, a key player in this modernization, is bringing its expertise to the table. They are not just tinkering with wires; they are laying the groundwork for a sustainable future. The project aims to secure another century of fossil-free electricity production. This is a bold statement in a world grappling with climate change.
The Untra plant is one of Fortum's oldest facilities, a relic of a bygone era. After receiving the green light from the Swedish Land and Environment Court in 2021, the renovation is finally underway. The new generators will feature a vertical design, a significant upgrade from the existing horizontal shaft and generator setup. This change is more than cosmetic; it promises improved efficiency and reliability.
The new turbines will harness the same amount of water as before, yet produce more energy. It’s like squeezing more juice from the same orange. The efficiency gains come from modern waterways and cutting-edge technology. The goal is clear: to continue supplying renewable, carbon-free electricity for another 100 years.
AFRY’s role is crucial. They are tasked with delivering electrical and control contracts for the new units. This includes installing new relay protection and excitation equipment. They are also adapting existing systems to work seamlessly with the new technology. This integration is vital for smooth operations and maintenance.
A new machine room will rise, featuring a glass superstructure that connects the old and the new. This design symbolizes the bridge between tradition and innovation. The modern control equipment will enhance operational efficiency, making maintenance easier and more effective.
The project is ambitious, with commissioning for the last unit scheduled for the end of 2030. This timeline reflects the scale of the undertaking. It’s not just about replacing old parts; it’s about reimagining how energy is produced and consumed.
Meanwhile, AFRY is also navigating internal changes. Jonas Gustavsson, the President and CEO, is stepping down after eight years at the helm. His departure marks the end of an era. Under his leadership, AFRY doubled its turnover and solidified its position in the sustainable transition landscape. The merger with Finnish Pöyry Plc was a pivotal moment, expanding AFRY’s reach and capabilities.
Gustavsson’s exit opens a new chapter for the company. A recruitment process for his successor is already underway. The transition is a reminder that change is constant, both in leadership and in the industry.
AFRY’s future looks bright. The company is well-positioned for growth, ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving energy landscape. The departure of Gustavsson is not a setback; it’s an opportunity for fresh perspectives and new ideas.
The energy sector is at a crossroads. As countries strive for sustainability, companies like AFRY are leading the charge. They are not just engineering solutions; they are crafting a legacy. The modernization of the Untra hydropower plant is a testament to this commitment.
In a world where fossil fuels are increasingly scrutinized, hydropower stands as a beacon of hope. It’s a renewable resource that can provide reliable energy without the carbon footprint. The Untra project exemplifies this potential.
As AFRY moves forward, it carries the weight of responsibility. The decisions made today will impact generations to come. The modernization of the Untra plant is a step in the right direction, but it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering. With 19,000 experts in various fields, AFRY is equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. Their work in industry, energy, and infrastructure is vital for a sustainable future.
In conclusion, the modernization of the Untra hydropower plant is more than just an upgrade. It’s a bold statement about the future of energy. AFRY is at the forefront of this transformation, navigating change while powering the next generation. The road ahead is filled with challenges, but with innovation and dedication, the future looks promising.
AFRY, a key player in this modernization, is bringing its expertise to the table. They are not just tinkering with wires; they are laying the groundwork for a sustainable future. The project aims to secure another century of fossil-free electricity production. This is a bold statement in a world grappling with climate change.
The Untra plant is one of Fortum's oldest facilities, a relic of a bygone era. After receiving the green light from the Swedish Land and Environment Court in 2021, the renovation is finally underway. The new generators will feature a vertical design, a significant upgrade from the existing horizontal shaft and generator setup. This change is more than cosmetic; it promises improved efficiency and reliability.
The new turbines will harness the same amount of water as before, yet produce more energy. It’s like squeezing more juice from the same orange. The efficiency gains come from modern waterways and cutting-edge technology. The goal is clear: to continue supplying renewable, carbon-free electricity for another 100 years.
AFRY’s role is crucial. They are tasked with delivering electrical and control contracts for the new units. This includes installing new relay protection and excitation equipment. They are also adapting existing systems to work seamlessly with the new technology. This integration is vital for smooth operations and maintenance.
A new machine room will rise, featuring a glass superstructure that connects the old and the new. This design symbolizes the bridge between tradition and innovation. The modern control equipment will enhance operational efficiency, making maintenance easier and more effective.
The project is ambitious, with commissioning for the last unit scheduled for the end of 2030. This timeline reflects the scale of the undertaking. It’s not just about replacing old parts; it’s about reimagining how energy is produced and consumed.
Meanwhile, AFRY is also navigating internal changes. Jonas Gustavsson, the President and CEO, is stepping down after eight years at the helm. His departure marks the end of an era. Under his leadership, AFRY doubled its turnover and solidified its position in the sustainable transition landscape. The merger with Finnish Pöyry Plc was a pivotal moment, expanding AFRY’s reach and capabilities.
Gustavsson’s exit opens a new chapter for the company. A recruitment process for his successor is already underway. The transition is a reminder that change is constant, both in leadership and in the industry.
AFRY’s future looks bright. The company is well-positioned for growth, ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving energy landscape. The departure of Gustavsson is not a setback; it’s an opportunity for fresh perspectives and new ideas.
The energy sector is at a crossroads. As countries strive for sustainability, companies like AFRY are leading the charge. They are not just engineering solutions; they are crafting a legacy. The modernization of the Untra hydropower plant is a testament to this commitment.
In a world where fossil fuels are increasingly scrutinized, hydropower stands as a beacon of hope. It’s a renewable resource that can provide reliable energy without the carbon footprint. The Untra project exemplifies this potential.
As AFRY moves forward, it carries the weight of responsibility. The decisions made today will impact generations to come. The modernization of the Untra plant is a step in the right direction, but it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering. With 19,000 experts in various fields, AFRY is equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. Their work in industry, energy, and infrastructure is vital for a sustainable future.
In conclusion, the modernization of the Untra hydropower plant is more than just an upgrade. It’s a bold statement about the future of energy. AFRY is at the forefront of this transformation, navigating change while powering the next generation. The road ahead is filled with challenges, but with innovation and dedication, the future looks promising.