Quartzelec, the UK-based engineering services specialist, has secured a £15.4 million contract from Drax to refurbish two 12MW hydro-electric generators at the Glenlee Hydro Power Station in southern Scotland. This initiative is part of the Galloway Hydro Scheme, which has been a cornerstone of renewable energy production for nearly 90 years. Supported by a 15-year capacity market agreement worth around £20 million, Drax’s investment aims to maintain Glenlee’s pivotal role in the UK’s renewable energy landscape.
The original English Electric generator units, installed in the 1930s, have reached the end of their operational life. Quartzelec will implement key upgrades to enhance efficiency and reliability. These include the installation of single-piece stator frames for simplified installation and improved long-term reliability, the introduction of brushless excitation systems to reduce maintenance demands, and enhanced bearing designs for better performance and start-up reliability.
The refurbishment also encompasses turbine upgrades, including new runners and guide vanes to boost efficiency. Andrew Dawson, Head of Engineering at Quartzelec, remarked, “We are very proud to be given the opportunity to continue our long-term relationship with Drax on a project as significant as this. Our technical expertise is deeply rooted in the hydro and wider power generation market, and we are delighted that we can continue to develop the UK’s renewable power schemes.”
Stephen Densley, International Business Development Leader at Quartzelec, noted that the contract reflects months of close collaboration with Drax and underscores the strength of their commercial and technical partnerships. He emphasised the shared commitment to delivering reliable, UK-led solutions that facilitate the transition to cleaner energy.
Drax’s emphasis on sourcing locally was crucial in Quartzelec’s selection. With headquarters in Rugby and a comprehensive network of UK suppliers, Quartzelec will lead the project domestically, underscoring the value of British engineering and contributing to the local economy. Mike Wynd, Head of Hydro for Drax, highlighted Quartzelec’s reputation as a technical authority in rotating electrical machines, making them the logical choice for this refurbishment.
The contract commenced in October 2025, with the installation of new equipment scheduled during phased unit shutdowns in 2027 and 2028. Upon completion, Glenlee will generate renewable electricity more efficiently and reliably, supporting extended operational periods within the capacity market. Stephen Morrison, Managing Director of Quartzelec, stated that winning this contract underscores their market-leading capabilities across the power chain, reinforcing the strength of British engineering in delivering critical infrastructure projects.
Quartzelec’s extensive track record in power generation, renewables, utilities, marine, rail, and other sectors, both in the UK and internationally, continues to establish it as a trusted partner for complex engineering solutions.
For more information, visit https://www.quartzelec.com/.
