Central Hidroeléctrica 3 de Febrero

Successfully led EPCM for remaining activities after significant project delays

Brought 67 MW of renewable power to the national grid

Incorporated unique designs to minimize impact to local wildlife and downstream communities

Challenges

Construction initially started in 2009, but faced significant delays after the original EPC project was left with only 30% complete.
During initial construction, discovery of a fault in the right abutment triggered a decision to move the dam site 600 m upstream. Comisión Eléctrica de El Río Lempa (CEL) brought on a different contractor in 2015 to incorporate the new structure.
As delays and construction costs increased, CEL needed a partner to perform a total technical audit to determine the cost and effect of completing the project versus decommissioning and rehabilitating the site.

Brought on at the end of 2019 to conduct a technical audit review and identify issues related to the current design, project structure, schedule, and cost.
Concluded the technical audit and advised that it was more economic to finish the project due to its advanced construction stage, the benefits of additional hydropower for the region, and the much-needed electrical capacity for the national grid.
Subsequently tasked to take over the EPCM contract and finalize construction.
The project involved construction of a new hydroelectric power plant comprising of several structures, including a Roller Compacted Concrete dam, intake structure, surge chamber, water conveyance system (tunnel and penstock), and powerhouse with two main 33 MW units and an auxiliary 1 MW unit.
Evolved into an Owner’s Engineer role and oversaw engineering support, procurement, and construction management for the remaining activities, including slope stabilization, site remediation, reservoir studies, and integration of remaining civil works for the spillway and hydromechanical installation.

Completed the balance of the design and construction management after years of project inactivity.
Successfully brought 67 MW of renewable power to the national grid.
Partnered with the local client team and provided full-service engagement customized to algin with the project’s unique requirements.
Incorporated an innovative design to ensure uninterrupted ecological flow throughout the river, effectively protecting downstream communities and wildlife while increasing fish populations and supporting sustainable fishing practices in the area.