Valmet’s automation improves hydropower plants’ performance for Kainuun Voima in Finland
09/11/2026 Valmet Automation Ltd
Valmet has been selected to deliver a Valmet DNAe Distributed Control System (DCS) to Kainuun Voima’s Koivukoski II, Koivukoski III and Ämmäkoski hydropower plants in Kajaani, Finland. The new systems, which include turbine controllers and plant automation (BOP), will replace the site’s existing third-party automation and selected electrical systems the with state-of-the-art Valmet DNAe platform. These mission-critical solutions enable reliable and efficient operation of the hydropower plants, enhancing turbine performance, improving maintainability, and supporting long-term operational excellence.
“Valmet’s new automation system integrates several previously separate systems into a single, unified whole. The investment aims to reduce the number of interfaces, which in turn shortens response times for maintenance and service. This modernization investment supports our long-term goal of achieving the best possible capability to meet the requirements set by the electricity market for our automation system,” says Kimmo Keinänen, CEO of Kainuun Voima.
“We are proud to deliver advanced automation solutions to Kainuun Voima’s hydropower plants. The solutions enable centralized monitoring and operation, together with advanced turbine control, protection and diagnostic capabilities. Built on Valmet’s proven experience in hydropower automation and the web-based Valmet DNAe platform, the solutions help the customer strengthen the flexibility, availability and long-term value of its hydropower operations,” says Timo Stranius, Solution Manager, Automation Solutions business area, Valmet.
The order was included in Valmet’s orders received during the third quarter of 2026. The value of the order will not be disclosed. The Valmet DNAe systems will be operational during the fourth quarter of 2027.
Technical information about the delivery
The delivery covers the replacement of a competitor’s automation system and selected electrical systems for three of Kainuun Voima’s hydropower plants (HPPs): Koivukoski II, Koivukoski III and Ämmäkoski.
The automation scope is based on the Valmet DNAe Distributed Control System (DCS) and includes Valmet DNAe Hydro Turbine Automation, Balance of Plant, and SCADA functionalities that enable centralized monitoring and operation of all three hydropower plants from a central control room.
The electrical scope includes new synchronizing equipment for the Ämmäkoski and Koivukoski II plants, as well as upgrades to the existing generator protection and excitation systems. The delivery also includes flood protection for the Ämmäkoski plant, along with upgrades to the medium- and low-voltage systems, protection solutions, Direct Current (DC) power systems, and control equipment at Koivukoski III.
The new automation and electrical systems will be integrated with the turbine rehabilitation works to ensure reliable and coordinated plant operation.
Valmet offers a comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions designed to support efficient, reliable, and flexible hydropower generation.
Valmet DNAe DCS is a next-generation, fully web-based distributed control system that is especially suitable for critical power generation. It ensures 24/7 safe and reliable operation through high availability and strong cybersecurity, while integrating process control, monitoring, and analytics to enable flexible, intelligent, and data-driven plant performance.
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Valmet Automation Ltd
Email: paul.mayor@valmet.com
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