Venezuelan Hydropower

"Supplying Power to Venezuela"

How can Venezuela better handle its growing electrical system needs while minimizing its initial investment?

That has been MWH’s goal with CVG-EDELCA, Venezuela's hydroelectric energy authority, for more than 40 years. This dynamic relationship has resulted in projects bringing 15,000 MW of efficient, clean and renewable electrical generating capacity for the country's growing economy.

Record-Breaking Designs

The partnership first resulted in the Guri Hydroelectric Project with a generating capacity of 10,000 MW of electricity. Developed in two stages and completed in 1985, this was one of the world's largest operating hydroelectric projects at the time. The facility was constructed over a 22-year period. This allowed the nation to match its increasing electricity needs with less investment up front.

Macagua Hydroelectric Project was the second plant. Completed in 1996, this facility has a capacity of 2,540 MW. The project is located near the city of Ciudad Guayana and two natural scenic waterfalls. It features strong environmental protection and mitigation measures, including a new museum and public park.

The most recent collaboration is the Caruachi Project with a 2,256-MW hydroelectric facility located near the confluence of the Caroni and Oronoco Rivers in southeastern Venezuela. Started in 1997, the Caruachi Project includes a 12-unit powerhouse, spillway, concrete dam, rockfill dam and concrete-face rockfill dam.

MWH engineers have collaborated closely with their counterparts at CVG-EDELCA in the design, review and detailing of construction drawings for use at Caruachi. They also have participated in on-site construction management and evaluation of construction programs to ensure adherence to schedules.

Benefits to Venezuela

CVG-EDELCA’s ongoing focus on hydroelectric generating capacity has produced many benefits for Venezuela. By using cost-efficient, renewable hydropower, the country has freed up energy resources for other uses. This includes the export and sale of Venezuela's valuable oil reserves ? an important source of revenue.

The projects have also generated much-welcomed jobs for Venezuela's citizens. This has helped not only the country's growing numbers of skilled engineers and business professionals, but also its general labor force. The partnership MWH has forged with CVG-EDELCA has been a powerful one.

It's a relationship that MWH looks forward to continuing with pride.