Run of River Hydel Power Generation (Pilot Study on Kabul River)

Abstract

Run of River (RoR) Hydel Power Plants are amongst the most viable and environmentally friendly energy sources. The development of this kind of hydel power systems is determined by technical practicability and financial viability of the project. These systems are mostly dependent upon the river flow, head and project construction costs. This study presents a mathematical model to verify the design discharge, output capacity and also the range of tariff identification for RoR projects in plain areas of Pakistan. Study analyzes the turbine systems, construction, maintenance and operational costs of the project. This can be calculated by the quantitative relation between the overall cost of a RoR power station and also the total energy production. This model can be used as a decision support tool for investors, decision makers and manufacturers for RoR hydel power development in Pakistan in general and in plain areas of Pakistan in Specific.