ANDRITZ Hydro business division key visual

News Mexico, Morelia

21/11/2024: 88-ton runner successfully installed at Angostura in Mexico

Successful installation of the Francis runner of Unit 2 of the Angostura hydroelectric plant: A Milestone in the assembly process. We are pleased to share a key milestone in the Angostura hydroelectric plant project: the successful installation of the Francis runner of Unit 2 with an impressive weight of 88 tons. This was accomplished through an assembly maneuver that marks the culmination of coordinated efforts from various teams involved in each phase of the process, from the design and manufacturing of the runner to its placement in the turbine pit.

We are pleased to share a key milestone in the Angostura hydroelectric plant project: the successful installation of the Francis runner of Unit 2 with an impressive weight of 88 tons. This was accomplished through an assembly maneuver that marks the culmination of coordinated efforts from various teams involved in each phase of the process, from the design and manufacturing of the runner to its placement in the turbine pit.

With this stage completed, our team is preparing for the next phase of the assembly, bringing us closer to the final goal of commissioning this important energy infrastructure.

This achievement is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of our team at ANDRITZ, which continues to drive the success of our hydroelectric projects in Latin America, and it further strengthens our position as leading provider of technological solutions for clean and sustainable energy generation.

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14/11/2024: Work is progressing at Peñitas modernization project

We are making steady progress on the modernization of the Peñitas hydropower plant project, led by ANDRITZ Hydro Mexico in partnership Hydropower Brazil. The client for this project is the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), and the project scope was divided to ensure that work progresses in an organized manner.

This project includes the complete supply of four new generators, along with installation supervision by Hydro Brazil. The commissioning of components, meanwhile, is under the responsibility of Hydro Mexico, which also oversees auxiliary systems, including the excitation system and its excitation transformer, medium-voltage panels, and adjustments in the SCADA for all new generator signaling. Field management is being handled through on-site coordination, while assembly is carried out in parallel by a Mexican company in partnership with ANDRITZ.

"Since December 2021, when the executive project began, our specialized engineering team has been working intensively to achieve our goals. Our mobilization to the site took place in January 2023, and in October 2024, the second generating unit began commercial operation. The project is scheduled to be completed in October 2025," stated Project Manager Vinicius Donha.

Essential steps to reach the milestone of the second generating unit's commercial operation included engineering development, in-house manufacturing of mechanical and electrical components, supply logistics, on-site assembly, and system commissioning.

The new 108 kVA generating units, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will significantly increase the reliability of energy generation at the Peñitas hydropower plant, strengthening the Mexican electrical system.

"I would like to extend a special thank you to our team. The success of this project is the result of a collective effort, both internally and with our colleagues in Mexico. The integration, commitment, and customer focus demonstrated by each member were essential for us to overcome challenges. There is still much work ahead, but with our team, I have no doubt that we will stay on the right path toward success," concluded Donha.

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23/07/2024: Inauguration of new positioner – A step forward in manufacturing efficiency

In June 2024, ANDRITZ Mexico took a significant step in its commitment to innovation and operational efficiency with the inauguration of a new positioner in its mechanical workshop. The event was attended by prominent industry leaders, including Frédéric Sauze, Member of the ANDRITZ executive board and CEO of ANDRITZ Hydropower, and Daniel Carrier , President of ANDRITZ HYDRO Canada Inc., who cut the ribbon to mark the start of operations.

The new positioner, with a capacity of 100-150 tons, is designed to handle heavy loads with greater efficiency and precision, representing a significant improvement in our daily operations. Among the most notable benefits are:

  • Increased productivity: Handling loads over 100 tons without complications.
  • Improved quality: Increased stability and control, reducing defects in welded structures.
  • Reduced delivery times: Smoother and faster operations, meeting delivery times.

At ANDRITZ Mexico, we remain committed to innovation and customer satisfaction. This new positioner is proof of our efforts to continuously improve and deliver high quality solutions.

With the implementation of this new positioner, we are prepared to tackle future challenges with a more efficient infrastructure. We thank everyone involved in this project and eagerly anticipate the benefits it will bring to our operations and our customers.

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16/05/2024: Manufacturing Progress of the Francis Runner at Angostura Hydropower Plant

During our visit to the mechanical workshop, we witnessed the progress in manufacturing the Francis Runner Unit 2, a component with an impressive weight of 88 tons.

This achievement not only represents a vital piece in the infrastructure of the plant but also reflects our deep commitment to quality and efficiency in all our operations. As one of the nine projects won with the CFE, we are delighted to contribute to the country's energy advancement with innovation and dedication.

We are eager to continue advancing in this landmark project and share further updates as we work towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for Mexico.

Thanks to our team for making this extraordinary progress possible!

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19/04/2024: Amata hydropower plant - Powering a sustainable future

In a continuous effort to strengthen Mexico's energy infrastructure and to move towards a more sustainable future, the Federal Electricity Commission has entrusted ANDRITZ to carry out the Amata hydroelectric project. Located in the town of Santa Cruz de Alaya, Sinaloa, the Amata Hydroelectric Power Plant with an installed capacity of 10 MW will be equipped to supply the interconnected electrical system of Sinaloa in a reliable and efficient way, providing clean and sustainable energy for local communities.

© CFE

The supply for this project includes two Kaplan CAT turbines of 5 MW each, including generators, power transformers and state-of-the-art automation systems. In addition, all necessary mechanical and electrical auxiliary systems have been implemented to ensure optimal and safe operation at all times, reaffirming our commitment to quality and safety at every stage of the project.

In a world that demands innovative and sustainable energy solutions, we are proud to lead the way towards a cleaner and brighter future.

Join us and keep abreast of the latest developments to closely follow the progress and achievements of this project!

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03/04/2024: Success at Malpaso hydropower plant!

We are pleased to announce that the Francis runner Unit 1 destined for the Malpaso hydroelectric power plant has been successfully completed.

With a weight of 77,800 kilograms, this turbine is a testament of the hard work and dedication of our team.

This project marks another milestone in our partnership with CFE, with Andritz leading 9 modernization and repowering projects. Proud to be trusted partners in advancing the industry!

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06/03/2024: Celebrating Milestones: Delivering Excellence in Energy Modernization at El Cajón Hydroelectric Power Plant

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of yet another milestone project – the modernization of the static excitation system at the El Cajón Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in Santa María del Oro, Nayarit. This achievement not only represents a significant technological advancement but also underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring the availability and stability of the power plant's generating units.

At ANDRITZ, we take immense pride in our role as leaders in energy modernization, and this project is a testament to our dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in energy generation across Mexico. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to CFE for their continued trust in our capabilities and for entrusting us with projects that redefine the landscape of energy infrastructure.

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain steadfast in our commitment to driving progress and innovation in the energy sector. Our team will continue to work tirelessly, collaborating with industry partners and stakeholders, to undertake projects that not only meet but exceed expectations, ultimately shaping a more resilient and sustainable energy landscape.

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12/12/2023: Rio Bobos, Guatemala – Modernization success

With great enthusiasm, we share the success of the modernization of the Río Bobos Hydroelectric Plant with a total installed capacity of 10.5 MVA, in the Itzabal region of Guatemala, carried out August 2023. This comprehensive project included the implementation of control, protection, speed, voltage, and synchronization control systems, that support the efficient and reliable operation of the hydropower plant.

The modernized systems, which include equipment of the renowned ANDRITZ brand, range from the control and SCADA to the generator, transformer, and line protection, as well as the synchronizer and automatic voltage regulator. Especially noteworthy is the implementation of equipment such as the HIPASE-P for optimum protection of the generator-transformer group and the HIPASE-S for automatic synchronization, both of which representing the state-of-the-art in their respective functions. 

We would like to thank HIDRONORTE for their trust in our team and together we are delighted with this step towards a more sustainable future in the energy sector.

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29/11/2023: El Cajón – Modernization of Unit 2 in Mexico

Exciting news! In a step towards the energy vanguard, we are proud to announce that in summer 2023 ANDRITZ was awarded a project for the modernization of the "El Cajón" Hydroelectric Power Plant static excitation system.

El Cajón is located in Santa María del Oro, Nayarit, on the riverbed of the Rio Grande de Santiago and at the Ing. Leonardo Rodríguez Alcaine Dam. It is equipped with the country's largest hydroelectric generators, each capable of producing 375 MW / 416,70 MW with a field current of 1,430 A / 1510 A for excitation and represents a benchmark for power generation in Mexico.

This is a significant achievement for ANDRITZ in modernizing Unit 2 and to continue maintaining the availability and stability of the generating unit. The new equipment has a short delivery time and will start the commercial operation in February 2024.

CFE, our customer, continues to place its trust in ANDRITZ, and we are excited about the positive impact this modernization will have on the community and the environment. We will continue to work to carry out projects that transform and enhance our energy landscape!

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16/11/2023: Santa Maria, Mexico – Butterfly valve 

In this exciting journey towards the development of new Hydraulic Infrastructure in Mexico, the Santa Maria Regulating Dam in Rosario, Sinaloa, has become a benchmark of innovation and commitment. Today, we want to share a significant achievement in this project that redefines the possibilities in clean energy generation.

Recently, the Santa Maria Dam has secured a pivotal contract that includes two 3.500 millimeter nominal diameter butterfly valves, with a nominal pressure of 12.5 Bar. These valves are not only essential to the operation of the dam, but also represent our tireless commitment to excellence and quality on this project.

It is crucial to note that these valves passed all the requirements of workshop tests and have been approved for installation on site. Currently, we are in the assembly and testing phase, an essential step to ensure that all components work correctly and then, we will move to the next stage of the project, which will include electromechanical equipment for the Santa Maria Hydroelectric Plant.

The future of Santa Maria promises to take the region to new levels of capacity and efficiency in renewable energy generation.  
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project Together, we are building a cleaner and more sustainable future!

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13/11/2023: A very special guest at our ANDRITZ facilities! 

We're thrilled to share with all of you the visit of our new friend, PELTIN, the Mascot at ANDRITZ.  PELTIN brought us a day full of joy as he explored our premises and greeted our incredible team.

PELTIN represents the iconic Pelton runner, proudly wearing its bump cap, safety shoes, gloves, and safety eye protection, reminding us of the importance of staying safe in our workplaces, and the choice of its color highlights our culture and unity at ANDRITZ.

To work together inspires us to keep our passion for engineering alive and to create an environment where respect, collaboration, and joy thrive.

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05/10/2023: VIVA MÉXICO!

At ANDRITZ, we recognize the importance of celebrating our roots and commemorating the historic events that have forged the identity of our beloved Mexico.

This September 15th, we are proud to have celebrated this special day with an event full of joy and Mexican tradition. Our employees came together in a festive atmosphere to enjoy typical dishes, participate in traditional games and break colorful piñatas, an emblematic symbol of our culture.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to the organizers of this event and, above all, to all our employees who took a moment to join this celebration. Our participation and enthusiasm make every ANDRITZ social event special.

Together we celebrate our Mexican heritage and work with pride for an even brighter future!

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02/10 2023: Latin American Hydropower

On September 14th, the Latin American Hydropower Congress took place, where our distinguished colleagues, Engineer Ander Ibarra (Mechanical Sales Manager), Engineer Gabriel Ramírez (Sales Manager At, Mps, Eps), and Engineer José Ortiz (Head of Sales of Operation & Maintenance, and Compact Hydro), delivered keynote speeches that were a resounding success.

Their presentations covered topics related to the modernization of mechanical systems, automation systems, and monitoring and operation alternatives for hydroelectric power plants. These issues highlighted ANDRITZ position as a global provider of electromechanical equipment and specialized services, with a history of over 180 years in the sector.

During the three days of the congress, more of our colleagues joined in and had the opportunity to participate in conferences that expanded their knowledge and further motivated them to achieve excellence in the field of hydroelectric energy.

At ANDRITZ, we are committed to continuous innovation, and we take pride in seeing our colleagues leading the way and sharing their expertise with the global energy community.

We extend our gratitude to the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo and the International Association of Latin American Hydropower for their kind invitation and for making us an integral part of this grand congress. It is through such collaborations that we can contribute to the advancement and excellence in the future of hydropower.

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11/09 2023: Latin American Hydropower & Systems Meetings 2023 Congress

We are pleased to announce that ANDRITZ will be a key participant in the plenary sessions at the upcoming Latin American Hydropower & Systems Meetings 2023 Congress. This event will feature the stellar participation of three of our collaborators as distinguished speakers.

On September 14th, get ready to immerse yourselves in a day filled with innovation and knowledge. Our experts will share their insights and perspectives on cutting-edge topics that are shaping the future of hydroelectric energy.

These will be conferences brimming with exciting ideas and inspiring approaches! 

Save the date: September 14th, 2023, Morelia, Michoacán.

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07/09 2023: Exciting News about the El General hydropower project in Costa Rica!

We are pleased to have achieved the successful delivery of spare parts, two upper turbine covers for Units I and II, along with two lower cover pieces. 

The El General Hydropower Plant is located about 50 km from San José and 102 km from Puerto Limón on the Atlantic coast of Costa Rica. It features two vertical-axis turbines with a combined total capacity of 40 MW, translating to an average annual net generation of approximately 198,380 MWh!

ANDRITZ Hydro Mexico achieved a fast and successful delivery, successfully meeting the technical and operational requirements set by our customer.

At ANDRITZ, we take pride in being involved in initiatives that are shaping Costa Rica's energy future. Hydropower drives a successful transition towards cleaner and more sustainable sources.

We remain committed to excellence and innovation in every project we undertake!

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12/07 2023: Mexico, Modernization of HPP Humaya completed

We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the modernization work on the second generator unit of the Humaya hydropower plant. Located on the Humaya River, the hydroelectric generating station has an installed capacity of 90 MW.

The contract for this rehabilitation is part of one of the largest rehabilitation contracts, not only of the customer CFE (Comision Federal de Electricidad) and ANDRITZ, but in the global hydropower market.

The installation of a new magnetic core and winding as well as the rehabilitation of the insulation on the rotor poles led to the complete transformation of the stator and rotor. The modernization work has increased the capacity of the Humaya hydropower plant by more than 20%, raising the output of the plant's two generators from 46 to 55.6 MVA with an efficiency of 98.2 This successful upgrade is a significant milestone for the customer CFE (Comisión Federal de Electricidad) and for our commitment to constantly improve our customers power generation capabilities.

This project is the culmination of an excellent collaboration between ANDRITZ Hydro Brasil, responsible for design, manufacturing, and supervision, and ANDRITZ Hydro Mexico, in charge of site coordination, assembly and testing of the components. Their excellent cooperation and profound experience were fundamental to the success of this project. Improvements of the power plant will enable electricity generation to be more reliable and efficient, benefiting the local community and our customers. We are pleased to support our customer in modernizing their hydropower fleet and to further drive innovation and development in the energy sector.

We congratulate everyone involved in this success and achievement and thank them for their dedication and effort.

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04/07 2023: Congratulations Hugo Loera! - Level II Thermography certification under ISO 18436

Our colleague Hugo Loera recently obtained the Level II Thermography certification under ISO 18436, after participating in an intensive training that took place in Guadalajara from 23 to 27 May.

Thanks to this certification, we will be able to carry out more sophisticated thermal inspections and accurately monitor temperature changes in various situations, This will ensure that our inspections are performed to the highest standards of quality and accuracy. This achievement of Hugo not only benefits his personal growth, but also drives our team and keeps our services at the forefront of the industry. 

Congratulations again to Hugo for this outstanding certification. We look forward to seeing him continue to apply his knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional results to our customers.

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29/06 2023: Yellow Day in ANDRITZ Morelia

At ANDRITZ Morelia, we join in the celebration of Yellow Day, a day filled with color, positivity, and optimism. During this special occasion, we take the time to socialize and resonate together..

During this day, we share moments, ideas, and strengthen our work relationships. It is a time to connect, generate synergies, and create an inspiring work environment.
We are proud of the participation and commitment of our team at ANDRITZ Morelia, which made this Yellow Day an unforgettable experience. Together, we proved that collaboration and positivity are the foundation of our success.

Let us continue to cultivate this positive and optimistic energy. The synergy of our team is the key to achieving great accomplishments!

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28/06/2023: Modernization of the control systems at HPP Las Vacas Guatemala

We are pleased to announce the successful modernization of the control systems at the hydropower plant Las Vacas in Guatemala.

Las Vacas is located on the Las Vacas River near the village of San Antonio Las Flores in the municipality Chinautla. With a total installed capacity of 45 MW, Las Vacas generates an average of 120 GWh of electricity per year, covering the peak demand of the local population.

We at ANDRITZ have worked intensively to optimize the energy efficiency of the plant using state-of-the-art solutions. We thank the entire team involved in this project and our valued customers for their trust in our services - we are proud to contribute to the sustainable development of the energy industry in Guatemala!

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26/04 2023: Los Esclavos, Guatemala – Signing of Compact contract 

December 2022, CONSTRUCTORA KADE S.A. a civil works company in Guatemala, awarded a contract to ANDRITZ Mexico for the supply of two new generating units for the hydropower plant Los Esclavos in Guatemala.

This Power Station belongs to the..

Read more...

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28/03 2023: Women at ANDRITZ Morelia - 8th March, 2023

We add, we contribute and, together we reach the goal, every day we are more, sharing strength, talent, and motivation, because we have shown that teamwork drives us to show our strengths as people, breaking stereotypes.

Let's continue in this way so that future generations can choose to follow their dreams and together continue to be a prosperous and successful company.

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23/03 2023: Visit to ANDRITZ facilities in Morelia, Mexico

We thank Mr. Antoine Darde from our representative of Guatemala, Mr. Nelson Pedraza and Ing. Josué Garcia representatives of the National Electrification Institute (INDE) of the Aguacapa Hydroelectric Power Plant, for his visit to the ANDRITZ Mexico facilities on February 21 – 23.

On the occasion of this visit hydraulic wave tests were carried out where the hermeticity of the oil chambers inside the injector was verified, operating tests in which the opening and closing of the needle was verified and subsequently hydrostatic tests verifying the metal-metal seal between the needle and nozzle as well as the injector body. 

The client expressed his conformity for the quality of the equipment and customer service that always characterizes ANDRITZ.

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02/02 2023: We celebrated the 40th anniversary of ANDRITZ Mexico 

ANDRITZ has inspired cutting-edge engineering with innovative and extraordinary projects that have made the dreams of thousands of employees around the world come true and have generated a positive impact on the environment, so we are proud that ANDRITZ Mexico is part of one of the leading countries in the market for integrated solutions, products and services for hydroelectric plants in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean for 40 years.

For this reason, in December 2022, we had an event at our headquarters in Morelia, Michoacán, called "Open Doors Day", where we commemorated 170 years of the group and 40 years since it was founded in Mexico, so that more than 500 people participated, all employees, their families and friends, gathered under the motto #ProudToBeBeANDRITZ enjoying fun activities, guided tours through the workshops, music, food and an exciting program for young people.

We thank the seniority of those employees who have traveled along with us, a path full of great projects and challenges, giving them recognition for their invaluable participation in these years of work and sense of belonging that they have developed in the new generations.

We celebrate how far we have come since the beginning and how proud we are to be part of this great history.

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28/11 2022: Reforestation ANDRITZ Mexico

Today in our planet, we are losing large forests year after year because of deforestation.

Our forests play an important role in ecosystems such as providing habitat for various species or mitigating the effects of global warming. In this context, the imminent need for reforestation of the territory arises to stop the deterioration that our planet is facing. 

At ANDRITZ Mexico, we are aware of this and as part of our commitment to the environment, we recently carried out the reforestation event "Leaving a footprint" where we planted more than 100 trees of various species in Morelia. At the same time, we took the opportunity to invite our employees and their families to have a space to come together and for recreation, thus encouraging the participation of all and putting into practice one of our core behaviors - shared commitment. 

We thank all participants and invite them to continue joining these social responsibility events of ANDRITZ.

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December 2021: Karapiro, New Zealand – FAT of G2 successfully conducted

Manufacture of mechanical (distributor) components for three Kaplan turbines and workshop tests were now successfully conducted in the ANDRITZ workshop in Morelia, Mexico. 

In January 2019, ANDRITZ Hydro signed a contract for the major refurbishment of the Karapiro hydropower station in New Zealand. The power station, which is owned by Mercury, is the last on the Waikato River, near Cambridge in the North Island. 

The scope of supply for ANDRITZ Hydro Mexico is the manufacturing of three inner and outer head covers; three bottom rings; three regulating rings, all including workshop assemblies. 

In September 2021, the final acceptance test (FAT) for the first unit (G2), was successfully carried out. However, due to the pandemic all tests were virtually witnessed by the colleagues of ANDRITZ Hydro in Linz and the end customer Mercury.

During the opening and closing of the distributor, no inconvenience occurred, the results were successful and to the satisfaction of the customer. Subsequently, the components were made ready for transport to the site.

The entire installation is scheduled to be completed and commissioned by April 2024.


Technical data:
Total output: 112.5 MW
Scope: 3 x 37.5 MW
Speed: 166 rpm
Runner diameter: 4,346 mm

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December 2021: ANDRITZ to supply electro-mechanical equipment for nine hydropower stations in Mexico

International technology group ANDRITZ has been selected by Comisión Federal de Electricidad, the national utility of Mexico, to modernize and upgrade nine hydropower stations. 

ANDRITZ will execute the order together with three local companies – GENERMEX, Hydroproject and SEISA.

Read more in the press release