Hydropower Modernization: Emerson Automation Boosts Renewable Energy Efficiency
Major Infrastructure Upgrade Completion
Emerson has successfully concluded a multi-year modernization initiative across four hydroelectric facilities. The Salt River Project involved Roosevelt, Horse Mesa, Mormon Flat and Stewart Mountain dams. These installations collectively generate 265 megawatts of clean electricity. This capacity powers approximately 60,000 Arizona households annually.
Technical Implementation Strategy
The project focused on upgrading legacy excitation systems critical for power generation. SRP integrated these new systems with existing distributed control infrastructure. Standardization on Emerson’s Ovation Automation Platform created operational consistency. Modern control strategies replaced outdated methodologies across all four facilities.
Measurable Performance Improvements
The modernization delivered substantial operational benefits. Maintenance and operational expenses decreased by 30 percent. Troubleshooting duration reduced by fifty percent. Startup and shutdown procedures became significantly more efficient. These enhancements strengthened grid reliability and performance consistency.
Utility Leadership Perspective
Shari Brady, SRP Hydro electrical engineer, emphasized their commitment to reliable clean energy. The standardized Ovation platform provided unified excitation and plant control. Despite aggressive implementation timelines, all installations completed according to schedule. The system now delivers superior operational insight and maintenance simplification. Unit reliability consistently exceeds the 90th percentile as a result.
Growing Regional Energy Demands
Phoenix area expansion and extreme weather conditions drive electricity consumption increases. These factors necessitate continuous infrastructure investment from energy providers. Generator excitation system improvements represent crucial components of grid modernization efforts.
Technology Provider Insight
Bob Yeager, Emerson’s power and water division president, highlighted the project’s significance. Enhanced visibility and reliability ensure continuous customer power supply. The standardization strategy positions SRP for long-term success. This approach supports adaptation to evolving energy markets and increasing power requirements.
Advanced System Integration
Custom Ovation Excitation Systems feature specialized pump and energy storage capabilities. These units require unique integration during operational mode transitions. Seamless compatibility with existing Ovation distributed controls created cohesive plant management. The upgraded infrastructure strengthens renewable energy integration capabilities.
Operational Simplification Benefits
The fully integrated automation platform delivers multiple administrative advantages. Standardized spare parts reduce inventory complexity. Training programs become more streamlined and effective. Operator familiarity enhances system management efficiency. Single-point service contact simplifies technical support processes.
Corporate Technology Leadership
Emerson maintains global industrial technology leadership through advanced automation solutions. Their comprehensive portfolio includes intelligent devices and control systems. Innovative technology combined with operational excellence drives automation advancement. The company headquarters operates from St. Louis, Missouri.
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