Muskrat Falls: Astaldi adapting following dispute over 'dome'

An official with Astaldi Canada says the company is adapting its work schedule following a dispute with a subcontractor over the construction of a specialized dome at the Muskrat Falls hydroelectric generation facility.

Quebec-based Constructions Proco Inc. was contracted last year to build what's called an integrated cover system over the powerhouse, where four generating turbines are being built.

The idea was to allow construction, especially the pouring of concrete, to continue unabated during the cold Labrador winter.

However, only half of the temporary shelter was completed, covering two of the four turbine sites.

In December, Astaldi exercised its right to terminate the contract, said Astaldi spokesman Matthew Pike.

"There was a target date to have the complete cover constructed by December. That target date was not achieved," said Pike.

Ramping up work this summer

Workers are now pouring concrete under the completed section of the dome and in order to stay on schedule, and Pike said Astaldi will increase its concrete capacity in the spring and summer at the two exposed turbines.

"We'll get units three and four done in the summer," he said.

The shelters are made from structural steel, metal cladding and fabric, and measure roughly 600 feet long, 300 feet wide and 200 feet high. The two companies are now negotiating the final amount of money owed to Proco.

Jean-Denis Toupin, a director with Proco, told CBC News Thursday that his company is owed nearly $12 million.

When asked if his company was behind schedule Toupin replied, "That is false."

Toupin said work on the shelter did not begin until September, adding "everything has been shifted."

He responded by saying "yes" when asked if this was a positive experience for his company. 

Astaldi disputes amount of money owed

However, Astaldi is disputing the amount of money owed and the reasons for the delay.

Pike said the quality of the work is also part of the discussions with Proco.

"We're in a dispute and we're working through," Pike stated. "There is a very professional negotiation going on."

Astaldi was awarded a $1 billion contract in 2013 to build the powerhouse, intake spillway and transitions dams for the 824 megawatt generating facility.

At its peak in 2014, more than 1,700 people were working at the site.

That number has now dropped to about 800.

The project is scheduled to be completed in late 2017 or early 2018.