Mary Tavy Hydro-Electric Power Station, Tavistock

Description

England’s first hydro-electric power station has fitted Eternit’s fibre cement Profile 6 sheeting as part of major refurbishment work.

Built in 1932 and based in Tavistock, Devon, Mary Tavy Hydro-electric Power Station generates enough electricity for 2,500 homes, and was once the largest hydro-electric scheme in England.

It is owned and operated by South West Water, who took the decision to specify Profile 6 sheeting after realising that the original fibre cement sheets used for the roof of the turbine hall had lasted for over seventy years.

Eternit’s Profile 6 sheeting has been used extensively within the agricultural and industrial sectors because of its longevity and durability, combined with it being a cost effective method of roofing and cladding all sizes and types of building.

Profile 6 has no metallic content, which means the sheets do not rust and, although weathertight, are vapour permeable, which significantly reduces the occurrence of condensation.

James Hepworth, Project Manager at Michael Thorne Construction, the roofing contractor, commented: “The original fibre cement sheeting has served this hydro-electric power station superbly since it was first built in 1932. We have used Eternit’s Profile 6 sheeting on many other projects and are therefore confident that it will provide a long term solution for South West Water.”

Eternit’s Profile 6 sheets have a 50-year life expectancy and are maintenance free, meaning that once installed, clients have the peace of mind that the material will perform consistently over a long period of time.