New Runner for Kerr Dam Arrives

A project to increase the generating capacity at PPL Montana’s Kerr Dam near Polson, Mont., moved a step closer to completion in late September with the arrival of the new runner to replace the one on Unit 3 of the hydroelectric plant.

PPL Montana is investing $3 million in the project to increase the maximum output of the unit from about 70 to 82 megawatts. Replacing the runner will allow the unit to make more efficient use of the water. A runner, or waterwheel, looks like a spinning wheel, with fixed blades between two rims. Water moves the runner which drives the turbine.

“Having the new runner will be more economical and efficient than continuing to maintain 50-year-old equipment,” said Carrie Harris, manager-Hydro Engineering. “It also will increase the supply of renewable energy in the state.”

Construction is expected to be completed early in 2007, Harris said. Kerr Dam is PPL Montana’s largest hydroelectric facility with a winter capacity rating of 196 megawatts.