HPP Perućica – hydropower plant in Montenegro major modernization

Montenegro has a long tradition of electricity generation from hydropower plants, with as much as 75% of installed generation capacity coming from hydropower. The oldest and one of the most important hydropower plants in the country is HPP Perućica (307 MW), which is now entering a major modernization phase after more than six decades of operation.

The Electric Power Company of Montenegro has launched an ambitious reconstruction project of HPP Perućica, which will last until 2027 and include comprehensive overhaul works on electrical and mechanical equipment. The goal of the project is to extend the plant’s operational lifetime, increase efficiency, and transition to advanced digital control systems.

• Capacity: 307 MW
  
• Number of units: 7
  
• Maximum annual output: 1,300 GWh
  
• Usable reservoir volume: 225 million m³ of water
  
• Modernization of automation systems
  
• Rehabilitation of key electrical and mechanical equipment
  
• Implementation of hydraulic and hydrological measurement systems
  

HPP Perućica is one of the pillars of Montenegro’s power system, and its modernization is crucial for long-term stability and reliability of electricity supply.

Rehabilitating such an old hydropower facility involves numerous technical challenges. The most significant include:

• Unit rehabilitation – all auxiliary and control systems are being replaced, while generators are the only part of the plant not included in reconstruction.
  
• Work on intake gates, which can only be performed during plant overhauls or during dry seasons when water inflow is reduced.
  
• Disassembly and installation works on large mechanical equipment.
  
• Work in confined spaces, where manual operations are often difficult and require specialized machinery.
  
• Use of sophisticated technology – Voith Hydro supplied specialized tools, including rail systems, supports and carriers, as well as a 3D laser for precise measurement and positioning.
• Power system stability – works are carried out in phases to avoid interruptions in electricity supply.

Elnos Group plays a key role in the implementation of this project, including:

• Complete rehabilitation of units A5, A6, and A7, including design, procurement of electrical equipment, and execution of electrical installation and mechanical works.
  
• Partial rehabilitation of units A1, A2, A3, and A4, including reconstruction of the external 110 kV bay and upgrades of excitation and turbine control systems.
  
• Rehabilitation of five intake gates, requiring design, procurement of electrical equipment, execution of works, and rehabilitation of mechanical equipment.
  
• Installation of hydraulic and hydrological measurement systems, enabling improved control and optimization of plant operation.
• Implementation of new automated systems – all units will be connected into a single, fully automated control system, increasing operational efficiency and precision.

• Long-term increase in efficiency and stability of Montenegro’s power system.
  
• Preservation of capacity at the country’s oldest hydropower plant.
  
• Reduction of operational costs through modernization and digitalization.
  
• Support for energy transition and adoption of advanced technologies.
  
• Ensuring long-term, stable electricity supply.
  

This modernization not only extends the lifespan of HPP Perućica, but also enables its alignment with modern power market requirements. Upon project completion, the hydropower plant will achieve higher efficiency, improved reliability, and enhanced operational capabilities, ensuring its continued key role in electricity supply in Montenegro and the wider region.