Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation to visit JSC TGC-1 Verkhne-Tulomskaya HPP

On 17 September, 2015, during working visit in Murmansk Oblast Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Andrey Cherezov held a meeting on preparation for 2015-2016 autumn and winter period and visited JSC TGC-1 Verkhne-Tulomskaya HPP.

The plant is the key facility of the regional energy system that transmits electricity to Karelia, being a reserve plant for the whole Northern energy district. The plant is unique with its underground location. The turbine hall of the HPP is situated at a depth of 60 m.

"Verkhne-Tulomskaya HPP upgrade is a priority project for JSC TGC-1. The project documentation is being developed, and preparations to the integrated step-by-step replacement of the hydraulic units have already started," claimed Igor Patsan, Director of the Tuloma and Serebryanskiye HPPs Cascade.

Andrey Cherezov visited a unique fish processing farm for growing rainbow trout baby fish that is located in the transport tunnel near the HPP turbine hall. The farm that has operated since 1992 includes incubator unit to grow baby fish and a breeding stock unit. Baby fish are sold by the fish industry in Murmansk Oblast and the Republic of Karelia.

"Subterranean rock location is favourable for the farm. HPP warm water and cold water from the water-storage basin mixing technology allows to create ideal conditions for baby fish growing", added Igor Patsan.

Summing up the visit to the plant, Andrey Cherezov remarked:

"The plant was build half a century ago, nevertheless, it is in good condition. It is an excellent example of solid construction, witty design and engineering solutions.