The Drava power plant Maribor in Markovci presented the project Reconstruction of the HE Formin and the Markovci dam
Dravske elektrarne Maribor (DEM) have presented their reconstruction project for the HE Formin hydroelectric power plant and the Markovci dam to local residents. The director of DEM, Andrej Tumpej, outlined that the reconstruction work will begin around mid-2026 and conclude by 2029. This includes replacing two complete aggregates at the Furmin power plant, upgrading auxiliary equipment, and reconstructing the intake channel. The channel will be emptied, cleaned, and lined with a special composite foil to improve efficiency and increase production capacity. Over two-thirds of the contracts for the project have already been signed. Some work, such as the cleaning of the intake channel, is expected to start in early 2027, followed by the installation of the second aggregate in mid-2027 and the first in December 2027. After completing the intake channel by mid-2028, testing of the aggregates will commence, with completion expected by early 2029. The reconstruction of the Markovci dam has been ongoing for several years, including the recent renovation of the last overflow area. Farmers who rely on water from the Drava River for irrigation expressed concerns about potential disruptions,
The major renovation of the Hidroelektrarna Formin has entered its crucial phase, marking a significant step forward in the long-awaited project. The complete reconstruction of the hydroelectric plant and the Markovci dam is transitioning from planning into implementation. Construction work and equipment delivery will begin in mid-2026, with main construction activities starting in 2027. This marks a pivotal moment for the facility, which has been operational since 1978 and remains the last hydroelectric power station in Slovenia’s part of the Drava river system yet to undergo full modernization. Currently, the plant produces approximately 548 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually, sufficient to meet the energy demands of around 155,000 households. The renovation will be extensive, involving the renewal and resurfacing of the intake channel, upgrading the Markovci dam, and replacing key components of the electrical machinery within the plant. Among these upgrades will be turbines, generators, transformers, and systems for water control, protection, and cooling. The project aims to significantly enhance the plant's performance and reliability. A key milestone was achieved in June when Dravske Elektrarne Maribor signed a contract with companies Esotech and Metalna Senovo for the supply, installation, and rehabilitation of hydraulic machinery at HE Formin and the Markovci dam. The agreement includes project design, technical documentation preparation, dismantling of existing equipment, and the delivery and installation of new components. This collaboration underscores the commitment to delivering a high-quality, efficient upgrade. Technical preparations began earlier, with successful completion of model testing for the future turbine in May at the Andritz Hydro laboratory in Linz. Engineers evaluated the turbine’s efficiency and operation under various operating conditions. This step was highlighted as a critical milestone by DEM, emphasizing the importance of thorough testing before moving forward with full-scale implementation. The outcome of the renovation will be noticeable. Installed capacity at the plant will increase from 116 to 130.65 megawatts (MW), representing a 12.6 percent improvement. Annual average production is projected to rise from 548 to 588.6 GWh, or nearly 589 GWh, marking a seven percent growth. This additional output is equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 12,000 households. One of the most visible aspects of the project for local residents will be the rehabilitation of the large intake channel between the Markovci dam and the Formin plant. During the reconstruction, the channel will be emptied, and water will be redirected through the old Drava bed beneath the dam. The entire process of shutdown, cleaning, and reactivation of the plant is estimated to take around 13 months. In Spodnje Podravje, the project has drawn considerable attention, particularly among local communities and farmers. Farmers rely on the Drava River for irrigation, and the temporary closure of the intake channel during the renovation will affect their ability to access water. Director Andrej Tumpej of DEM acknowledged this challenge, noting that the channel will be dry for nine months, making it unavailable for agricultural use. He emphasized that this issue has already been documented in permits issued for irrigation purposes, and efforts are underway to find alternative solutions. A joint meeting with the Agricultural Chamber and the Ministry of Agriculture is planned to address these concerns. The project, while ambitious, is well-funded and structured. According to Tumpej, the investment plan estimates the total cost at around €150 million based on current prices. The timeline for the project is set to conclude in early 2029, with all major components, two new turbines and associated auxiliary equipment, fully installed and operational. The final stages include commissioning tests and gradual ramp-up of operations following the completion of the intake channel rehabilitation.
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