In 1988, Hatch Energy was asked to develop a program for upgrading the 912-MW Akosombo generating station on the Volta River in Ghana. Retrofit of one unit revealed unusually low turbine efficiencies. The program was put on hold while Hatch Energy completed a technical and economic review of the situation.

It was determined that higher capacity replacement runners, with other modifications, would deliver important long-term benefits.

Each of the six Francis turbines are being refurbished and given new runners. The four older units have been equipped with new stator cores and windings on the existing frames; two newer units have new windings only. Many other upgrades have been made to improve turbine efficiency and operational procedures.

Field tests confirm that all Hatch Energy guarantees for increased power and efficiency have been met.