a hydroelectric plant doubles its production near Toulouse
At a time when the price of electricity is exploding, diversifying the sources of energy production is becoming essential. In Grépiac near Toulouse, the hydroelectric power station has been renovated in order to produce more electricity, always with respect for the environment.
The context of tension on electricity prices in France is prompting adaptations. Even if the increase in gas and electricity prices will be limited to 15% in January 2023 as announced by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, this energy is becoming precious. Innovations to diversify energy sources are therefore welcome. In Grépiac, about thirty kilometers south of Toulouse, a hydroelectric power station has been renovated, in order to to produce more electrical energy.
“The dam is equipped with three valves which allow to retain the water in order to maintain the level, and to create the waterfall. The resulting water force then swings through the turbines“explains Martial Estebe, president of the company MVE, manager of the plant. This modernized machine will now produce six million kilowatt hours per year, enough to supply a city of 2,500 people all year round. This is simply double what the previous dam produced.
This renovation requires a budget of 4.5 million euros, in particular to build more modern generators. It is the Ilek company which markets this current. Even if this new electricity suggests good commercial prospects, Ilek says he doesn’t want to ride this wave. “The market is very expensive and we want to protect our historical customers, before thinking about having new ones or increasing our prices.” justifies Damien Vaissière, marketing manager of the company which manages 130,000 customers. A good way, too, to preserve electricity which has become a precious energy.