NEW DESIGN CONCEPTS OF MICRO HYDRO POWER PLANTS

Abstract

Problem associated with small hydro power exploitation especially in micro hydro range, is primarily technical as well as economical. Each proposed site requires individual engineering considerations for its development. Civil works as well as equipment cost becomes unfeasible due to lack of standardization of the system for such a small power. In order to exploit the small hydro power potential in the range of micro hydro, the new concept becomes necessary to make the site economically viable where lot of potential is available to be harnessed. Past experiences have shown that the exploitation of micro hydro potential has not been a successful story due to incorrect concepts towards civil works as well as equipment. Scale down approach for civil works and non standardization of equipment may be the main reason for high costs of these plants. The present study is planned to identify the reasons responsible for its usefulness. Based on the reasons identified, the concept to develop these sites, have been suggested. The approach has been suggested in order to reduce the civil cost and standardization of the equipment and hence its cost. It has been suggested that the entire micro hydro range i.e. upto 100 kW be categorized into three sub categories i.e. upto 10 kW, 11 kW to 30 kW, and 31 kW to 100 kW. The concepts for development of micro hydro sites under each category has been discussed in detail. It has been suggested that micro hydro sites under the category of capacity upto 10 kW should be developed by employing the locally available technology and material. Under this category hydro potential of existing water mill sites have been considered. Upgradation of the existing water mills and development of new sites for multi purpose power units has been suggested. Upper category of micro hydro in the range of 31 kW to 100 kW has been considered for energy generation of better quality.