THE CHALLENGE
Yukon Energy’s Aishihik Hydro Facility experienced an equipment failure. While undergoing repairs, the hydro facility – located 110 km northwest of Whitehorse – could no longer produce its normal capacity. A broken rotor, a critical turbine component, significantly reduced the plant’s ability to generate electricity. This caused a strain on the electricity system, especially during the cold winter months. The situation highlighted the importance of dependable backup capacity on an isolated system, and underscored the urgent need for fast, effective mechanical repair and restoration.
THE NEED
To restore full operational capacity and help stabilize the grid, Yukon Energy urgently needed a trusted partner to assess and repair the damaged rotor. The timeline was tight; the environment was complex—the plant is located 110 meters underground and produces 25% of Yukon Energy’s electricity—and the stakes were high. Yukon Energy entrusted Wajax | Delstar Énergie, a division of Wajax, to deliver a highly specialized solution with rapid turnaround and reliable results.
THE WAJAX SOLUTION
Upon receiving an urgent call from Yukon Energy, the Wajax | Delstar Énergie team sprang into action. Initial response: Immediate technical meetings were held to understand the scope and offer our full manufacturing, refurbishment, and engineering capabilities.
- Work planning: A detailed service offer, and work plan were submitted and approved by December, with part reception taking place during the holiday season.
- Collaborative problem-solving: We worked closely with the client to identify the root cause of the failure and proposed enhancements to improve component design.
- Precision execution: Our team refurbished the poles, designed and manufactured new pole jumper connections and mounting keys, and improved the insulation of all supplied parts.
- Engineering support: As-built drawings were delivered to provide Yukon Energy with comprehensive records for future maintenance.
- On-site and remote support: The poles were delivered on time to the site, and the rotor was successfully reassembled.
THE IMPACT
Thanks to Wajax’s swift coordination, technical excellence, and proactive partnership:
- Hydroelectric output has not yet been fully restored, but it is expected shortly, which will significantly decrease pressure on the system and increase renewable electricity generation.
- Yukon Energy praised the professionalism and expertise of our team, and new projects are already underway with this client.
- The project also reinforced the importance of collaborative engineering, and responsive support when it matters most.