The project will replace the facility’s original gantry cranes, which have been in use since the plant began operation over 65 years ago. The upgrades aim to enhance operational efficiency and safety at the hydroelectric plant, a critical source of clean energy for New York State.
“These crane replacements are crucial for the future operational safety and efficiency of the St. Lawrence-FDR Power Project, for our IBEW workforce and for NYPA,” said Judge Cecily Morris, NYPA Trustee and North Country resident. “This investment in modernizing our equipment demonstrates the Power Authority’s commitment to best-in-class upgrades to this essential North Country power generation asset.”
Justin E. Driscoll, NYPA President and CEO, emphasized the importance of the upgrades. “These two new cranes are essential for the continued safe and efficient operation of the St. Lawrence-FDR Power Project, ensuring the plant can continue to provide up to 1 GW of reliable, clean energy from this facility to New Yorkers for many years to come. The current cranes are original to the project and have served the plant well since it began operation more than 65 years ago. The cranes have reached the end of their operating lives, and we are grateful to have found a nearby, highly qualified vendor with the capacity to build this unique machinery using American steel.”
The new cranes will include several upgrades:
The 90-ton crane will be replaced with a 100-ton model to accommodate reserve capacity and dynamic forces when lifting intake gates.
The 300-ton crane will be replaced with a 350-ton model to handle greater dynamic forces and potential future upgrades to the generating units.
Additional improvements include rail replacement, conductor bus bar system upgrades, and power feeder replacements.
Design and engineering work will begin in January 2025. The 100-ton crane is expected to be completed by mid-2028, with the 350-ton crane scheduled for completion in 2030.
