ANDRITZ to Supply Pump Turbine for French Jura Energy Storage Expansion
ANDRITZ has been awarded a contract by Électricité de France (EDF) to supply a new pump turbine for the Vouglans/Saut-Mortier pumped storage project. The project will significantly increase the region's energy storage capacity.
International technology group ANDRITZ has secured a contract from Électricité de France (EDF) to supply a new pump turbine and associated equipment for the Vouglans/Saut-Mortier pumped storage project located in France's Jura region. This initiative aims to enhance energy storage capacity, improve electricity grid stability, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources.
The project involves transforming an existing hydropower cascade on the Ain River into a three-basin pumped storage system, connecting the Coiselet, Saut-Mortier, and Vouglans reservoirs. During periods of low electricity demand, water will be pumped upstream for storage. When demand peaks, the stored water will be released through the pump turbine to generate electricity, providing rapid renewable power and bolstering grid stability.
With the addition of the new pump turbine, the total output of Vouglans/Saut-Mortier will increase by approximately 80 to 85 MW. The project will also expand energy storage capacity from 50 GWh to 250 GWh, substantially increasing usable water volume and optimizing the use of existing infrastructure.
ANDRITZ will deliver a 17-MW variable-speed pump turbine, encompassing design, manufacturing, assembly, commissioning, and the turbine governor. Consortium partner Ingeteam will provide the motor generator and full power converter, enabling variable-speed operation. Project execution is scheduled to take place between 2026 and 2031.