New small hydropower plant in Lamnitz equipped with GRP pipes

In Austria, a significant proportion of energy comes from hydropower, around 27 % in 2023, and this energy source continues to grow. In the Carinthian town of Lamnitz, a new small hydropower plant was put into operation in 2024, which will supply around 800 households with electricity. To divert the water from the Lamnitzbach stream to the turbine, the power plant company decided to use a 1,400 m long pressure pipeline made of glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP) from Amiblu, which was installed in a very short time. 

Challenging installation in a wooded area 

Despite the difficult conditions, it took Fürstauer Bau GmbH from Winklern just under five months to lay the pipes. The construction site was located in a wooded area that was difficult to access and could only be reached via the valley to a limited extent. The route along the Lamnitzbach stream was steep and winding, which made the work more difficult. In addition, the pipes could not be stored on site, which meant that deliveries had to be precisely coordinated. 

Why GRP pipes? 

GRP pipes were deliberately chosen. These pipes are lightweight and can be laid quickly, which is a particular advantage in locations that are difficult to access. Another aspect was the ecological footprint: the pipes were manufactured in Germany, which kept the transport routes short and therefore lower in emissions. This was an important factor for the power plant company, which consists of local partners. 

High rigidity and complex installation 

GRP pipes with a diameter of 900 mm and an increased nominal stiffness of 10,000 N/m² were used for the project in order to cope with the drop height of around 130 metres. Installation was particularly challenging in the upper third of the route, where numerous curves and bends had to be concreted over a distance of 450 metres. The team size was increased accordingly here. 

Efficient energy generation thanks to special pipe technology 

GRP pipes from the manufacturer Amiblu are particularly suitable for hydropower projects as they have a smooth, resin-rich inner surface that enables high flow rates with minimal friction losses. This maximises the energy yield. In addition, the production of these pipes requires less energy than the production of other pipe materials. 

Work was completed on schedule in August 2024 and the power plant has been generating around 2.8 million kWh of electricity per year since September 2024. In addition to its contribution to the energy transition, the above-ground route also serves as a toboggan run in winter and therefore has another possible use. 

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