The construction and operation of Hydro Electric Power Plants involves a significant investment in physical assets and infrastructure. The ongoing maintenance and monitoring of these assets is crucial in ensuring a plant’s efficient, and reliable, operation over time.
According to the 2020 IAE report, Hydropower provides almost half of the low-carbon global electricity generation. This is 55% higher than nuclear, and larger than that of all other renewables combined – including wind, solar, solar PV, bioenergy and geothermal. For a sustainable global future, it is vital for Hydro Electric Power Plants to have smart operations over their assets.
In this blog, we will explore how Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software, and more specifically, HxGN EAM, is revolutionising the Hydro Electric Power industry ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of their assets, and organisation.
Data-driven decision making
A Hydro Electric Power Plant that is not operating at maximum capacity can significantly impact energy production, and therefore income, despite operating costs remaining the same. Transitioning from reactive maintenance planning to predictive maintenance scheduling is necessary for Hydroelectric companies to be able to scale.
Utilising Internet of Things (IoT) technology, such as Smart Metering, enables HxGN EAM to retrieve real-time insights into asset performance, costs, and efficiency. Continuous condition-monitoring of assets – such as transmission lines and dams – minimises disruption, equipment downtime, and failure rates, and facilitates predictive maintenance.
Designed to operate in diverse settings, the EAM software supports ongoing development initiatives by enabling Hydro Electric Power Plants to make data-driven strategic decisions on developments, upgrades, expansions, and modifications based on asset run-time performance.
Enhanced Operational Efficiency
A Work Order Management system that precisely assigns and dispatches engineers, contractors, and other resources according to their skillsets and permits to work is a key component of operations management for Hydro Electric Power Plants. Digitising these workflows considerably improves the speed, efficiency, and accuracy of operations on site.
EAM software, such as HxGN EAM, provides efficient work scheduling, overseeing the entire Work Order and Checklist process seamlessly through a cloud-based EAM application. Those on site can allocate and manage Work Orders (WOs) from a desktop or mobile device whilst those out in the field can, in real-time, record asset down-time in real-time for all asset types.
Minimising environmental impact
Despite providing a critical source of cost-effective and flexible low-carbon electricity, new hydropower projects often face long lead times, lengthy permitting processes, and are deemed high risk from environmental assessments.
The use of advanced technologies such as Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping ensures compliance with rigorous environmental regulations, protecting the environment and long-term viability of these projects. The centralised storage and organisation of project documentation helps manage permits, regulatory documents, and engineering plans in a systematic manner.
In its latest release, HxGN EAM 12.1 included a new integration: Near Field Communication (NFC) Scanning capability whereby engineers can now scan NFC tags in the Digital Work App from their mobile device. This not only increases the accuracy, accessibility, convenience, and efficiency of populating EAM data but it eliminates the need for disposable batteries or multiple chargers which can reduce electronic waste and pollution.
Revolutionise your Hydro Electric Power Plant
The management of Hydro Electric Power Plants is undergoing a revolutionary transformation with the implementation of EAM software.
Using HxGN EAM empowers your organisation to make informed, data-driven decisions – enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability whilst minimising the environmental impact.
Partner with an experienced team, dedicated to understanding how to support hydroelectric and other renewable energy sector clients with the implementation of Hexagon’s Enterprise Asset Management software. Initiate the implementation process by reaching out to the TouchstoneEnergy team, who will guide you toward a successful integration today.
