The Reventazón plant has been problematic since before its start. Experts now use the terms “complex” and “delicate,” instead of problematic but it’s gotten to the point that they need to call in international experts to help figure out what’s happening and find solutions.
The mega-work was opened in 2016 and cost $1,567 million. It’s the second largest infrastructure in Central America after the Panama Canal expansion. It’s been running for six years, but never at capacity.
The structure suffered cracks and leaks. A gallery on one side has flooded. There have been numerous interventions. It was even completely emptied at one point, cracks filled in, and cement installed over them.
The design team still doesn’t know the reason behind the “geological behavior” which has prevented the reservoir level from ever rising to the maximum value stated in the design.
The experts at ICE have done all they can and it’s been decided that international experts in dam safety, hydrogeology, and geotechnics of hydroelectric works will be brought in to resolve the issues. This will be under a $249,000 contract.
