SMEC Assesses Hydropower Feasibility in Papua New Guinea

This project will assist in the expansion of access to hydropower services in Papua New Guinea.

SMEC has been awarded a contract by PNG Forest Products to undertake the feasibility study for the next phase of the 12 MW Baime Hydropower Project (HPP) in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea (PNG). This follows on from the successful completion of a pre-feasibility study in 2014.

The Baime Hydropower Project consists of a low height diversion weir, a 3 km long headrace pipe, a surge tank, a 6 km long penstock pipe and a surface power station housing Pelton turbines. SMEC’s services include: procurement of subcontractors for the management of topographical survey and geotechnical investigations; re-appraisal of the pre-feasibility study; optimisation of project layouts; and undertaking of a full bankable feasibility study.

This Project continues SMEC’s relationship with PNG Forest Products, with SMEC having previously completed the pre-feasibility study; feasibility study; Environmental and Social Impacts Assessment (ESIA); and the detailed design of the 9.4 MW Upper Baiune HPP.