Photo of the Week: Friant Power Plant Renovation

Written by: Winetta Owens

Friant Power Plant Renovation – Photo Credit: Winetta OwensThe Friant Power Plant, located to the left of the water outlets on the dam (as shown in photograph), currently produces 25 megawatts of hydroelectricity for the Friant Power Authority.

Renovations by Syblon Reid General Engineering Contractors will expand the power plant to improve water flow during flood conditions. Underground pipes have been added that will split the flow between the old turbine and the new turbine being installed; they will also allow for increased water flow into the San Joaquin River from the power plant.

The original turbine has a maximum power production capacity of 2.3 megawatts, which can result in 130 cubic feet per second (cfs) of flows into the river. The maximum power output for the new turbine will be 8.9 megawatts with a flow of 370 cfs. Renovations are expected to be completed in November 2016.

Published on March 29, 2016