Technical Due Diligence: 110MWe Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT)

The Vlorë Thermal Power Plant (110MWe) is Albania’s only thermal facility, originally constructed by Tecnimont. Out of service for over 12 years due to cooling water issues, it represents a critical energy security asset for a nation heavily reliant on hydro and imports.

The Albanian Power Corporation (KESH) partnered with the Client to evaluate restoring the dormant Vlorë TPP. Restarting the plant could bolster Albania’s energy independence and provide reliable baseload capacity.

To act as Client’s Engineer, providing an independent evaluation of the plant’s technical state, feasibility of restart, and roadmap for restoration to operational status.

F&H Power Consultants inspected all critical systems, including the 70MWe Gas Turbine, 30MWe Steam Turbine, turbogenerator, Distributed Control System (DCS), HRSG, and high-voltage systems. Documentation (licenses, O&M agreements) and operational data were reviewed alongside maintenance histories to map the plant’s technical standing and restoration needs.

The assessment revealed outdated control systems lacking vendor support, in addition to mechanical risks in turbines and generators. Significant upgrades were recommended prior to restart.

The due diligence empowered stakeholders to plan restoration, budget for system upgrades, and mitigate risks before committing capital, ensuring a transparent decision-making process.

The evaluation identified the technical and control system challenges crucial to returning Albania’s only thermal power plant to service, guiding KESH and the Client toward a clear restoration pathway.