Major project examples

Since 1989, we have carried out work on 45 hydroelectric power plants in Japan and overseas combined, including 22 new-build projects and 23 renovation projects. We meet a wide range of needs, covering projects of many different scales, site conditions, and both new construction and renovation.

1. EPC method: A contract structure in which the contractor assumes integrated responsibility for the three stages of Engineering (design), Procurement, and Construction.
2. Full turnkey: A contract structure, typically used in plant construction and similar projects, in which a single contractor undertakes all stages in an integrated manner, from design and procurement through construction, test operation, and handover in a fully operable state.
3. SPC: Short for Special Purpose Company, meaning a company established for a specific purpose.
4. TBM method: A tunneling method in which the tunnel is excavated while crushing the rock by pressing roller cutters attached to the front of a Tunnel Boring Machine (the cutter head) against the rock face.

Support for Diverse Procurement Schemes

Drawing on our long track record and technical expertise, we can accommodate a wide range of procurement methods. In addition to the conventional separated design-bid-build approach, we can also respond flexibly to client needs through methods such as DB (Design Build), EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction), and ECI (Early Contractor Involvement). We also support a broad range of projects, including new construction, renovation, equipment renewal, and seismic reinforcement. From planning and investigation through design, construction, various testing, and permit and approval applications and procedures, we provide end-to-end support. At Ainomatadani Hydroelectric Power Plant, we established our own SPC (Special Purpose Company) and also operate the power plant. In this way, we have built up expertise not only in construction but also in operations, enabling us to meet a wide variety of requirements by applying the most appropriate technical approach to the characteristics of each project.

Use of Advanced Technologies

We have introduced cutting-edge digital technologies and DX (digital transformation) across all types of construction sites, including ICT, AI, drones, 3D laser scanners, BIM/CIM (construction information modeling), and IoT sensors, and we also use them in the design, construction, and maintenance management of hydroelectric power plants. These technologies enable precise simulations during the design stage, real-time progress management at construction sites, and efficient data utilization in post-completion maintenance management. As a result, they contribute to higher quality and safety, shorter construction periods, lower costs, and the longer service life and stable operation of power plants. In particular, the use of BIM/CIM promotes seamless information sharing and greater efficiency from design through construction to maintenance management, making a major contribution to improving the project's overall productivity.
We also have advanced expertise in constructing long, narrow cross-section headrace and tailrace tunnels. In the headrace tunnel work for the Komatagawa New Hydroelectric Power Plant, we excavated 7,658.4 meters in approximately 20 months using the TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) method, setting the longest distance in Japan^*. This high-speed excavation technology was highly acclaimed and received the FY2022 JSCE Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement Award. Drawing on this advanced tunneling technology, technologies to improve dam seismic resistance, and the extensive experience and track record we have built in civil engineering, we are also able to undertake highly challenging projects.

*As of March 2026, based on Shimizu’s research.

Consideration for the Environment and Local Communities

In hydroelectric power plant construction projects, we make proposals that take both the environment and local communities into account from the project planning stage. While working to reduce CO₂ emissions, implement energy-efficient construction, and use low-carbon materials, we also give careful consideration to the impacts on ecosystems. Specifically, we seek to reduce CO₂ emissions through measures such as electrifying construction machinery, using renewable energy, and promoting the recycling of construction by-products. We also pursue hydroelectric power plant construction that coexists with the environment from multiple perspectives, including installing fishways to help preserve habitats for aquatic organisms and giving consideration to the landscape through dialogue with local residents.
We thoroughly implement measures to address noise, vibration, and dust, conduct environmental monitoring, and exercise the utmost care to ensure that the living environment of local communities is not adversely affected. These efforts form part of our sustainability initiatives, through which we aim to achieve both lower environmental impact and harmonious coexistence with local communities.

Building a Sustainable Future with Proven Technology

Hydroelectric power plants provide clean, stable electricity for many years. That is why, across a wide range of projects, including new construction, renovation, equipment renewal, and seismic reinforcement, and under every type of procurement scheme, we draw on our extensive civil engineering and digital technologies to deliver safe, high-quality construction. Through the construction of hydroelectric power plants, we will continue working to help build a sustainable society and support the development of local communities.