Omaha Public Power District picks Invensys for nuclear plant automation upgrade

Invensys Process Systems was recently selected to provide its Foxboro-brand I/A Series distributed control and data acquisition system to help ensure reliable operation and improve generating efficiency at Omaha Public Power District's (OPPD) 500-MW Fort Calhoun Nuclear Power Station.

By Staff January 1, 2005

Invensys Process Systems was recently selected to provide its Foxboro-brand I/A Series distributed control and data acquisition system to help ensure reliable operation and improve generating efficiency at Omaha Public Power District’s (OPPD) 500-MW Fort Calhoun Nuclear Power Station.

One of the largest public utilities in the U.S., OPPD recently began implementing a comprehensive plant upgrade to support a 20-year operating license extension for the Fort Calhoun plant. I/A Series’ capabilities and Invensys’ experience with nuclear power plants were reportedly important factors in the selection process.

Objectives of the upgrade project included: replacing obsolete control systems to improve plant reliability and performance; reducing operations and maintenance costs; improving generating efficiency; using technology that can be easily upgraded to remain viable over the plant’s extended life; and maintaining a competitive edge over other forms of electrical power generation.

The initial control system foundation will be installed and commissioned in 2005; additional phases of the system will be installed in 2006. Invensys nuclear application specialists are working with OPPD personnel to identify additional plant applications where Invensys’ advanced technology can further enhance reliability and performance.