Press Releases

NEW ORLEANS, LA—The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) today provided updates on repairs to Turbine 5 (T5) and the ongoing testing at the Power Complex, including a revised timeline for bringing T5 back online.  

Turbine 5: Turbine 5 remains out of service with an anticipated return to service in late September. Representatives from GE, the manufacturer, were on-site to assist with diagnosing control system issues. While no damage was identified to the turbine itself, additional parts within the control system require replacement. SWBNO is working closely with GE to secure the necessary components and complete repairs.

Power Complex: Static Frequency Changer 1, which is directly connected to the 25-Hz distribution system, has successfully undergone testing with a simulated load source. Following the resolution of an electrical issue discovered on August 15, limited pump testing resumed on August 25. During this phase, power was dispatched to a pump, though adjustments were necessary to ensure consistent operation. The joint venture (JV) team has since completed these adjustments, and pump testing is scheduled to resume on September 3.

Turbine 4: Turbine 4 remains online and available as needed while T5 is offline.

Once fully operational, the Power Complex - including SFC 1 will play a key role in strengthening our power infrastructure and reduce reliance on T4 and T5.  The Power Complex is a critical infrastructure project that will ensure reliability and redundancy in our power system which will positively impact how we provide electricity to our drainage pumps. 

SWBNO will continue to provide updates as T5 repairs and Power Complex testing progress. For a complete pump and power status, visit our Pumping and Power Dashboard: swbno.org/Projects/PumpingAndPower.

###