The project involves the replacement of the penstock at the Lasa hydroelectric plant, located in Val Venosta (BZ) and operated by Alperia Greenpower Srl.
The plant, which has been in operation since 1956, uses a maximum flow rate of 7.5 m³/s over a head of 968.5 m to power a 63 MW Pelton turbine, with an average annual production of 222 GWh.
The existing pipeline, about 2,158 m long, is underground and made of steel, but needs replacement for efficiency and safety reasons.
The new route is divided into three sections:
- Upstream Section: laid alongside the existing pipeline, with shallow excavation to reduce environmental impact.
- Intermediate Section: deep laying in grassland area to ensure the usability of the land.
- Downstream Section: replacement on the same axis as the existing pipeline, involving temporary deactivation of the plant.
The new pipeline is welded steel, buried, and sized for a useful life of 100 years. It is equipped with 18 manholes, 17 anchor blocks, 4 reconstructed road crossings, and conduits for power supply and fiber optics. The construction site included the use of two cable cars and access tracks to overcome the logistical difficulties of the mountainous site.
The work is designed to improve hydraulic efficiency, maintain structural stability, and reduce environmental impact, while ensuring operational continuity of the plant and infrastructure safety.
