Alvance British Aluminium has invested in a power station to ensure long-term reliability of production at its Lochaber Smelter.
The company is undertaking a programme of maintenance and investment at Lochaber Power Station this summer, to ensure the reliability of the renewable energy source that powers aluminium production at the smelter.
The power station generates hydroelectric power that supports the production of low-carbon primary aluminium.
Maintaining the station and its equipment is essential to ensure safe, efficient and dependable supply of electricity for years to come.
As part of the 2026 maintenance programme all five of its generators are undergoing a inspection and refurbishment.
The work has been planned to use a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) process carried out in partnership with engineering group Trillium.
This approach helps identify potential risks before they occur, to allow maintenance activities to be targeted where they will deliver the greatest benefit.
The electrical maintenance work on Generator L1 will be undertaken by Andritz, the original equipment manufacturer responsible for the generator’s design and construction.
This maintenance programme is an important part of the company's investment in the future of the Lochaber site.
Alongside supporting reliable power generation for production, the work will also help maintain the power station’s ability to provide balancing reserve services to the national electricity network.
These services help support grid stability during periods of changing demand while making effective use of water stored in its hydro system.
Alongside the maintenance works, the power station will also upgrade its electrical control systems.
Andritz will install two additional Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) as part of a three-year investment programme worth £400,000.
The first AVR was successfully installed in 2025, with the remaining units being added over the coming years.
Automatic Voltage Regulators play a key role in controlling generator output and maintaining voltage levels, helping the station operate in line with the National Grid Code requirements.
