Hydropower Maintenance: How Our Experts Keep Hydroelectric Power Companies Performing Optimally

More than 100 hydroelectric facilities projects completed in 2023

The reliable, clean power generated by hydroelectric power companies is vital to modern society. But beneath what appears to be a tranquil surface, these large dam infrastructures face a constant barrage of challenges – from erosion and wear to environmental demands. To ensure on-going performance, optimized operations, and the protection of these critical structures, hydroelectric power companies turn to the specialized expertise of the hydropower maintenance team at UCC.

Our highly trained commercial divers, underwater specialists, and hydropower maintenance professionals, equipped with cutting-edge technology and decades of experience, provide a comprehensive suite of dam services designed to optimize performance and mitigate risk. From underwater inspections, reporting and documentation, emergency response and innovative repair solutions, UCC’s hydropower maintenance experts help ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of your hydroelectric facilities.

With the demand for water and hydroelectric power surging, addressing aging infrastructure has never been more urgent. UCC, a pioneer in underwater construction and dam services, delivers the technology and knowledge to keep these vital structures safe and efficient, securing water supply and hydropower generation in the face of critical challenges. Hydroelectric power companies around the U.S. turn to UCC for a variety of specialized underwater dam services, including:

• Inspection and Survey Services – thorough dam inspections are conducted using both divers and ROVs to identify any potential issues that could impact a dam’s performance, such as erosion or cracks, and address them in a timely manner.

• Hydropower Maintenance and Rehabilitation – we work closely with dam owners and operators to customize maintenance solutions that meet their specific demands.

• Underwater Construction Support – key dam construction services offered by UCC include, but are not limited to, dredging and sediment removal, commercial diving operations, concrete repair and rehabilitation, underwater welding and cutting, and more.

Read how our hydropower maintenance team led the debris removal at a dam’s powerhouse in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Leverage the benefits of hydropower maintenance expertise in your 2024 plans. Many hydroelectric power companies are assessing their project needs and budgets, and our team is here to help. We can review your project plans, help provide cost estimates as well as identify unknown considerations that might impact cost and timelines.

Utilizing an experienced underwater construction and commercial diving company like UCC can significantly improve operations in several ways:

• Minimize downtime – divers can often perform inspections and maintenance tasks without interrupting power generation, reducing lost revenue.

• Cost-effective solutions – our expertise in hydroelectric maintenance allows us to identify and solve problems efficiently, using specialized equipment and technology to avoid unnecessary work.

• Prevent major issues – regular underwater inspections and proactive maintenance by UCC can help detect and address minor problems before they escalate into major failures.

• Knowledge of regulations and standards – we stay up-to-date with the latest industry regulations and safety standards, ensuring compliant operations, helping hydroelectric power companies avoid costly fines or legal issues that could arise from non-compliance.

• Advanced technologies – utilizing remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) extends our reach and capabilities beyond manned diving limitations. Navigating hazardous environments like contaminated water, turbulent currents, or areas with limited space and/or visibility with ROVs helps protect divers. ROVs can eliminate unnecessary exposure to dangerous elements and can gather comprehensive data quickly to enable real-time decision making for maximum efficiency and safety.

Is your hydroelectric dam struggling with aging components, underwater damage, or operational inefficiencies? Since 1969, Underwater Construction Corporation has served as a trusted partner to hydroelectric power companies, providing comprehensive hydropower maintenance services and solutions to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Contact our experts today to discuss how our hydropower maintenance services can maximize efficiency and minimize downtime of your critical infrastructure. We are happy to assist you with your 2024 schedule and budget planning.