Reconstruction of the own consumption system and other activities as part of the HEPS “Zvornik” generator revitalisation – Stage 1: Procurement of a 440 kVA diesel generator

Reconstruction of the own consumption system and generator revitalisation of HEPS “Zvornik” – Stage 1 (procurement of a 440 kVA diesel generator) was carried out from July to December 2019 at Mali Zvornik, under investor Public enterprise “Elektroprivreda Srbije”, branch “Drinsko-Limske HE” Bajina Bašta. It included replacement of the existing 280 kVA diesel generator with a new 440 kVA diesel generator.

A new diesel electric device, with a 440 kVA capacity in Stand-by functioning mode, is intended for an emergency supply of the 0.4 kV 1st priority consumers, who shall be automatically switched on (connected) in case of a basic and backup power supply failure. Generator is connected to the section II of 0.4 kV, 50 Hz main distribution system, on the left bank. A diesel generator has an option of synchronisation, that is, a parallel functioning with a 0.4 kV network.

Diesel generator in Stand-by mode with a nominal power of 440 kVA is a stationary, closed type generator, and represents an emergency power supply source for the priority consumers.

For the purposes of backup electric power supply for the priority consumers, a diesel electric generator is designed, type “KOHLER-SDMO”, model: D440, closed type, in a soundproof enclosure. Room intended for a diesel generator facility is made of the solid material waterproof walls. This project also includes the necessary changes aiming to modernise the backup supply.

Hydroelectric Power Station “Zvornik” is located on Drina river, in the western part of the Republic of Serbia, in an immediate vicinity of Mali Zvornik. HEPS “Zvornik”, as the furthest downstream location of Drina’s middle course, is a dam toe powerhouse with two mechanical buildings – one on the left, and other on the right bank, that together with a dam are damming the river Drina.

Climate of Drina’s drainage basin, where HEPS “Zvornik” is located, is a typical continental climate with changes influenced by the mountains. Practically all the precipitation occurs during the winter months, i.e. from November to April. Frost occurs extraordinarily from November to March. Temperatures go from the lowest point of -30°C, up to the maximal 40°C.

A generator revitalisation increases reliability of the own consumption backup supply system of HEPS “Zvornik”, as well as the degree of safety and stability of power station’s backup supply, which leads to a higher reliability of the power station itself, within the Republic of Serbia’s energy system.