Bakun Hydro Rehabilitation

Luzon, Philippines

Project outline

The 70 MW Bakun hydroelectric power station located on the island of Luzon in the Philippines was flooded as a result of Typhoon Feria in the first week of July 2001, less than a year after commissioning.  At its peak the floodwater was approximately 1.5m above the powerhouse generator floor level. 

Maunsell assisted in the recommissioning of the power station, and provided advice for ensuring the security of the power station and intake against future flooding.

Services to client

Maunsell assisted the owner in the recommissioning of the station, getting both machines online and generating as quickly as possible. This was achieved without compromising safety or risking damage to equipment.  The station was renovated to its pre-flood condition, to allow it to operate reliably for the next 25 years.

Preventative measures were implemented to safeguard the station against flooding when similar weather conditions occur.   Maunsell reviewed the values used in the original design for flood events and prepared a computer model to check floodwater levels.  Any documentation errors and other deficiencies found while restoring the station were rectified.  Recommendations were made to the owner to ensure the security of the power station and intake against future flooding.