Rope Access Solutions for Hatta Pumped Storage Hydro Power Plant (HPSHPP)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Hatta Pumped Storage Hydro Power Plant (HPSHPP) is a major renewable energy project under construction in the Hajar Mountains, approximately 140 km southeast of Dubai. This pioneering development involves transforming the existing Saad Hatta Al Awwal Dam into a lower reservoir and building an upper reservoir 150 meters higher, connected by a 1.2 km pressure tunnel.
Key project components include:
• Two roller-compacted concrete dams (35m and 70m high) for the upper reservoir.
• A powerhouse equipped with two turbines generating 250 MW of power during a six-hour cycle.
• Construction of two blast-excavated road tunnels (470m and 440m in length).
• Installation of intake and outflow structures, ancillary buildings, and associated mechanical and electrical systems.
Given the challenging topography and complex access requirements, Acrobatica Spider Access was awarded high-level works for this project during 2020–2021. Our expertise in lead rock climbing, mountaineering, and IRATA-certified rope access techniques enabled safe execution in extreme and inaccessible environments.
SCOPE OF WORK
Spider Access carried out a wide range of specialized services, including:
• Installation of rope access anchor systems using specialised chemical resin.
• Geological and geotechnical surveys for rock stability analysis.
• Geological clearing for sampling, fracture and fault mapping, and classification of hydrothermal and metasomatic alterations.
• Manual and mechanical rock scaling for slope stabilization.
• Drilling and installation of rock bolt anchors followed by grouting.
• Rockfall protection mesh installation to mitigate falling object risks.
• Lifting operations for heavy tools, machinery, and materials using tension lines and powered winches.
• Conducting rescue drills and geotechnical safety demonstrations on-site.
CHALLENGES
The project presented several unique challenges:
• Safe Access to Extreme Heights: Irregular slopes and vertical cliffs required customized anchor systems.
• Geotechnical Surveys in Hazardous Zones: Identifying stable anchor points on weathered rock surfaces.
• Rockfall Hazards: Risk of falling debris above active construction zones.
• Heavy Equipment Lifting: Moving large tools and materials across steep and unstable terrain.
• Traffic Safety: Managing rockfall risk and movement of soil and debris over roads with continuous construction traffic.
THE TEAM
To ensure safe and efficient execution, Spider Access deployed a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, including:
• Project Management: Led by a Ph.D. in Geology and Technical Authority of Acrobatica Group with expertise in large-scale rope access projects.
• HSE Officers: NEBOSH- and IOSH-certified professionals ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations.
• Supervisors & Technicians: Experienced geotechnical supervisors and IRATA-certified rope access technicians trained in advanced access techniques. Their qualifications were further enhanced with IPAF and PASMA certifications for safe operation of lifting and access equipment.
SOLUTIONS
Spider Access overcame these challenges through specialized rope access methodologies and meticulous planning:
• Employed lead climbing and mountaineering techniques for secure anchor placement on solid bedrock.
• Conducted detailed geotechnical assessments to select anchor points in non-weathered rock with minimal cracks.
• Installed temporary rockfall barriers and implemented traffic management procedures to protect workers and equipment.
• Used tension lines, hauling systems, and petrol-powered winches for safe equipment lifting.
• Deployed IRATA-certified technicians for safe and efficient access in high-risk zones, eliminating the need for heavy scaffolding.
ACCESS METHODOLOGIES
• Lead Climbing Techniques: Following a combination of UIAA and IRATA procedures.
• Rope Access Systems: Installation and testing of EN 795-certified anchor points, in compliance with BS 7883:2019 standards.
CONCLUSION
The Hatta Pumped Storage Hydro Power Plant is a landmark renewable energy project, and Spider Access is proud to have played a vital role in its successful execution. By leveraging advanced rope access methods, geotechnical expertise, and strict safety protocols, we addressed complex challenges in one of the UAE’s most rugged terrains. Our team delivered specialized high-level works safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with international standards, reinforcing our position as a leader in rope access solutions for geotechnical and energy projects across the GCC.
