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MANAGES AND MONITORS: From the operations room at Såheim in Rjukan, Telemark, Gunnar Meland (left) and Endre Brekkhus control the operation of all Hydro’s power stations in southern Norway. They are part of a team that monitors operations around the clock. (Photo: Kåre Foss)
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”We are well aware that we are managing some really outstanding assets," says Pål Thorud. He heads Hydro’s energy operations in Telemark.
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| (Photo: Helge Hanssen) |
"Power resources are important – not just for industry, but also for the welfare of society – in other words, for each and every one of us. Our challenge in Hydro is to utilize these resources and plants in the best possible way
Century of power
He enjoys a view towards Rjukan and Vestfjorddalen from his office high above Såheim power station. In this area there are a number power plants, most of them located deep within the mountains.
It was in this valley that hydroelectric and industrial development in Norway began.
The highest power station, Frøystul, dates from 1995; the other plants are older, but subject to systematic maintenance, refurbishment and modernization measures.
In terms of size and complexity, a power station is like a factory, though the times have changed. Nowadays most of them can be monitored electronically and operated remotely. The responsibility is the same – but the requirements for know-how and competence are even greater.
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| HEAD OF POWER: Pål Thorud heads Hydro’s power operations in Telemark. |
Safe and efficient
– Smooth operation requires good planning, in terms of both regular maintenance and major audits – and this requires us to have in position all the systems and routines necessary in order to carry out the work properly. The responsibility for health, environment and safety is centrally placed,” explains Thorud.
”This is how it has to be. Being responsible for power station operation means that one has to face up to a number of potential risks - from high-tension lines, tunnels, shafts and high-volume water conduits to transport, including snow scooter operation in the mountains during winter.
In 2007 Hydro’s power stations in Telemark were in operation 98 percent of the time. These statistics reveal that there were few unforeseen incidents and that some solid maintenance work is being carried out.
“It is very important for us that HSE – health, safety and environment – is integrated into all the types of work we do. We adopt a zero-injury philosophy. That means that we shall not have injuries, nor job-related sicknesses, nor noxious discharges and emissions to the environment. We have now entered our fourth year without LTI-injuries,” states Thorud.
