Small Hydro Power Plant - Development

8/10/2019 Small Hydro Power Plant - Development

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Energies2011, 4, 1258-1277; doi:10.3390/en4091258

energiesISSN 1996-1073

www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Review

Tools for Small Hydropower Plant Resource Planning and

Development: A Review of Technology and Applications

Petras Punys *, Antanas Dumbrauskas, Algis Kvaraciejus and Gitana Vyciene

Water and Land Management Faculty of the Lithuanian University of Agriculture, Kaunas,

Akademija, 10 Universiteto Str., LT-53361, Lithuania; E-Mails: [email protected] (A.D.) ;[email protected] (A.K.); [email protected] (G.V.)

* Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: [email protected] or

[email protected]; Tel.: +370-37-752-337; Fax: +370-37-752-392.

Received: 27 June 2011; in revised form: 22 August 2011 / Accepted: 22 August 2011 /

Published: 26 August 2011

Abstract: This paper reviews and compares software tools for the planning and design of

small hydropower (SHP) plants. The main emphasis is on small scale hydropower resource

assessment computer tools and methodologies for the development of SHP plants

corresponding to a preliminary or prefeasibility study level. The paper presents a brief

evaluation of the historic software tools and the current tools used in the small hydro

industry. The reviewed tools vary from simple initial estimates to quite sophisticated

software. The integration of assessment tools into Geographic Information System (GIS)

environments has led to a leap forward in the strengthening of the evaluation of the power

potential of water streams in the case of the spatial variability of different factors affectingstream power. A number of countries (e.g., Canada, Italy, Norway, Scotland and the US)

have re-assessed their hydropower capacities based on spatial information of their water

stream catchments, developing tools for automated hydro-site identification and deploying

GIS-based tools, so-called Atlases, of small-scale hydropower resources on the Internet.

However, a reliable assessment of real SHP site feasibility implies some on the ground

surveying, but this traditional assessment can be greatly facilitated using GIS techniques

that involve the spatial variability of catchment characteristics.

Keywords:small hydropower (SHP); GIS; software tools for SHP assessment

OPEN ACCESS


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1. Introduction

The assessment of SHP sites for development represents a relatively high proportion of overall

project costs. A high level of experience and expertise is required to accurately conduct this

assessment. Over the last several decades, a variety of computer-based assessment tools have been

developed to address this problem and enable a prospective developer to make an initial assessment of

the economic feasibility of a project before spending substantial sums of money. These tools range

from simple first estimates to quite sophisticated programs. However, a reliable assessment of real

economically feasible potential implies some on the ground surveying of possible sites and their

electricity generation potential. Thus, the advent of Geographic Information System (GIS) software

has been of enormous use as a way of capturing the range of information required, which is discussed

further in this paper. These technologies can store spatial catchment information of a proposed SHP

site in a GIS database and use it for decisions on whether to proceed with SHP plant development.

This paper reviews software tools and interactive maps/atlases that are deployed publicly on the

Web and that indicate the locations of SHP sites and their main features. The main goal of these tools

are the identification of potential SHP sites and the evaluation their energy output and environmental

feasibility. Compatibility with environmental considerations is a crucial issue for the development of

an SHP site before proceeding with a feasibility study.

This paper is based on the experience and expertise of the countries in which hydropower is highly

developed, where specialised hydro software tools are extensively used for planning and designing

SHP plants from a preliminary resource or site assessment up to a feasibility study. Only publicly

available software assessment tools for SHP site development, which can be found in the available

literature with clearly described computing algorithms, are presented. Obviously, for commercial

software, the exact algorithms are mostly commercially sensitive, although, in some cases, their main

features may be publicly available.

A comprehensive overview of the computer-based assessment tools used a decade ago for

predicting the energy output of a particular small hydro scheme is given in [1]. The International Small

Hydro Atlas also presents valuable information on SHP assessment tools and methodologies used all

over the world [2].

The main aim of these software tools is to find a rapid and reasonably accurate means of predicting

the energy output of a particular hydro scheme. These predictions involve establishing the head andthe flow duration data that give the time variability of water discharge sufficiently accurately for

capacity sizing of the plants. The first of these aims is a relatively simple matter of physical

measurement, together with some hydraulic loss calculations concerning pipe materials, water

velocities, and other variables. The second is much more difficult for SHP site investigation, and this

part of the problem is the most intractable. There is no problem in assessing natural stream water

energy from long time river flow records, which is not true for short period flow records and which is

even more complicated for ungauged sites. Needless to say, the accuracy of hydrological analysis is

crucial for the cost effectiveness of a hydro scheme [3].

In the US, the first GIS layers of SHP potential (


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proximity analysis. Based on these datasets, an interactive hydropower atlas was developed, which is

now available for public display on the Web [5].

To better understand the hydro resources available at the regional and local scales, a GIS study to

determine the quantity and size of potential micro-hydro projects within a sample county in the US

was performed [6]. A GIS-based map of the county was constructed with layers for property

ownership and boundaries, elevation, stream locations and federal and state protected areas. Using a

basin-specific GIS application, StreamStats [7], capable of computing estimates of streamflow

at ungauged sites and estimated elevation change, the stream power was calculated using a

conventional formula.

For a preliminary hydropower site assessment in a Brazilian river catchment, a software coupled

with GIS and remote sensing data (satellite images) was used and generated a digital elevation model

(DEM) and incorporated river flow data of the catchment [8].

GIS techniques were used to identify suitable SHP sites in Tanzania [9], and the outcome was amap with an index that aggregated hydrologic, demographic, economic and other attributes. Later, in

South Africa, a preliminary assessment of micro- and macro-hydro power potential was undertaken by

estimating the actual energy calculated from digital maps of river basins and runoff [10].

In India, a hilly stream catchment was considered for the assessment of hydropower potential using

spatial tool GIS and a hydrological model [11]. In this country, prospective sites for SHP development

were determined using remote sensing data (satellite images) [12]. The application of GIS to the site

selection of a small run-of-river hydropower project by considering engineering, economic and

environmental criteria and the social impact was also employed [13].

In Sri Lanka, a user friendly GIS was developed and applied to effectively create, store, manipulate,analyse and present the information relevant for the identification, investigation, design, monitoring

and control of the operations of proposed and existing mini-hydropower plants [14]. In South Korea, a

GIS-based methodology to identify suitable SHP sites by geospatial criteria was proposed [15].

In Europe, one of the first attempts to include spatial catchment attributes to estimate small-scale

hydropower potential at any location was made by [16].

In Switzerland, using the ArcGIS 9.2 Spatial Analyst extension, a DEM for a small catchment area

(2800 km2), and numerical flow data, suitable SHP locations were identified, and their characteristics

were compared with those of plants already in operation [17]. A project called SMART that considers

numerical methods, GIS databases and public cadastre for SHP development presents an interactive

GIS- and Web-based SHP atlas [18,19]. This atlas (SMART Web-GIS) displays possible SHP sites by

taking into account various limiting environmental factors and provides SHP plant power characteristics.

On the agenda of recent SHP conferences organised in Lausanne (Switzerland) and Vancouver

(Canada), one of many items discussed was the new computer tools for SHP site assessment using GIS

technologies [2023].

The main aim of this study was to review publicly available software tools and interactive

Web-based maps designated for SHP site identification, with the assessment corresponding to levels

from reconnaissance up to pre-feasibility studies.


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The overall objectives of the study were to:

Review computer programs and interactive maps on the Internet that are publicly available and

designated for hydropower resource evaluation for SHP planning and designing purposes;

Determine the possibilities for their practical application, stressing their main features; Reveal the possibilities of current applications of GIS technologies for conducting

hydropower studies;

Summarise good practices of these technologies for hydropower resource assessment and real

site location by means of automated GIS procedures.

2. Methodology

The study object is small-scale hydropower resources or potential that are needed for planning and

designing SHP plants. Computer programs intended for modelling hydromechanical equipment (for

instance, turbines), such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD); civil, geotechnical and other

relevant hydropower engineering; and project cost issues including detailed design studies, are

considered beyond the scope of this paper and are not discussed.

Neither SHP resources nor SHP plants have been distinguished according to any component. In

common practice, a virtual size limit is fixed for small hydropower plants. Their size, usually

determined by installed capacity, varies greatly from a few kilowatts to 50 MW [24].

According to their purpose, software tools and interactive maps (atlases) deployed on the Web and

designated for hydropower resource development can be distinguished between resources planning and

designing studies (Figure 1).

Figure 1.Software tools used for hydropower assessment.

Reconnaissance resource studies or the first SHP planning level are conducted to find potential

energy sources and to estimate the energy available in streams and may not be too site specific. In the

past, to conduct this initial hydropower assessment, contour maps were typically used, assisted by

standard computer programs. Based on the available head and mean annual flow or flow duration

curve (FDC) in the stream, the capacity and energy output were determined. These hydrologic

characteristics were determined using common methods. This classical methodology, which became

more accurate, convenient and rapid, is aided by GIS based tools and other GIS integrated solutions.


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Design software is used for performing real hydropower projects, falling under prefeasibility or

even feasibility studies, after which a final design is made or construction is initiated. Hydrologic data

analysis assisted by specialised hydrologic software estimates the flow available for energy development

and is a first crucial component of a hydropower project, clearly determining its feasibility. A variety

of information resulting from a range of publications in open sources, conference proceedings and

internet resources on the application of computer programs and integrated GIS for the planning and

design of small hydropower plants was collected and analysed.

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Conventional Software Tools for SHP Assessment

Computer software designated for SHP assessment can be integrated or not into GIS (i.e., using the

spatial data of a catchment). Only the latest computer-based packages have integrated GIS tools orvice versasome of them are a part of GIS (Figure 1). To assess river flow, there are two main

approaches: the flow duration curve (FDC) and the simulated streamflow (model) methods. A less

accurate intermediate approach is based on the mean annual flow (MAF), which can also be used in

some programs. Table 1 summarises the software packages applied for hydropower studies.

Most of these software tools were developed nearly two decades ago, and some of them

(for instance, RETScreen) have been constantly improved. At that time, some programs were

regarded as promising, but ultimately they did not find a practical application. For instance, HydrA

(European Atlas of Small scale hydropower resources), a PC-based software package, which was first

developed in the UK and later in Spain, was designed for rapidly estimating small-scale hydropowerpotential at any location, at gauged or ungauged sites, to identify suitable turbine types [16]. The same

fate occurred with the Lithuanian SHP atlas [25] because a relatively narrow hydropower market could

not support its practical application.

The integrated method for power analysis (IMP) is a convenient tool for evaluating small-scale

hydroelectric power sites [26,27]. By utilising IMP (combined with the relevant meteorological and

topographical data), in approximately one day of in-house study, an experienced user can evaluate all

aspects of an ungauged hydro site, which includes a power study, the development of a flood

frequency curve and a fish habitat analysis.

RETScreen, a very easy to use Microsoft Excel-based software, was developed by Natural

Resources Canada and is available free from their website [28,29]. It enables the user to facilitate

project development in various renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, which includes

assessment of the potential for hydro based on the FDC or MAF of the site. It also determines the main

financial information for the project, including initial capital cost and payback, and calculates avoided

CO2emissions.

PEACH software is dedicated to preliminary studies of hydropower sites [30,31]. It considers all

technical engineering methods, usually used at these preliminary stages, and also deals with economic

and financial analysis of hydropower schemes.


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Table 1.Overview of conventional software tools for SHP assessm

Software Tools F

Name Developer

Applicable

countries Hydrology

Power

andenergy

Co

Integrated method for power

analysis (IMP) [27]

Natural Resources

Canada and POWELInternational Model +

RETScreen [29]Natural Resources

CanadaInternational FDC +

PEACH [31]

ISL Bureau

dIngnieurs Conseils,

France

International FDC +

Hydropower Evaluation

Software

(HES) [33]

Department of Energy,Idaho Engineering and

Environmental

Laboratory, USA

USA MAF

SMART Mini Idro [18] ERSE SpA, Italy Italy FDC +

Hydrohelp [34]Gordon J.L and OEL-

HydroSys, CanadaInternational FDC +

Modified and updated from the International Small Hydro Atlas [2].


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The Hydropower Evaluation Software (HES) enables the user to account for environmental, legal

and institutional constraints in the US [32,33]. It uses environmental attributes and federal land code

data to generate a project environmental suitability factor.

Software SMART MINI IDRO based on the Excel platform is intended for preliminary SHP

studies [18]. Power and energy are calculated using FDC and the type of turbine. Preliminary

economic and financial estimates are also available.

HydroHelp includes a series of programs that enables hydro engineers to develop detailed

preliminary cost estimates for power plant sites by providing expert advice throughout the design-cost

process [34]. It offers a six-turbine selection feature to help promoters and designers choose the most

appropriate turbine for a given site and market conditions.

3.2. GIS Applications for Evaluating Hydropower Potential

A variety of geographic information system (GIS) definitions are in use. For the purposes of thispaper, they can be simply described as a system integrating hardware, software, and data for capturing,

managing, analysing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information [35]. GIS

enables one to view, understand, interpret, and visualise data in many ways that reveal relationships,

patterns, and trends in the form of maps, globes, reports, and charts. A GIS also can be outlined as a

suite of computer-based decision support tools for the integration of spatial data from different sources

and for the analysis, manipulation and display of these data. It is, therefore, a powerful tool for the

management of water bodies, such as river basins, with large amounts of spatially distributed data with

all the advantages of a computer capability.

Land and forest surveys were the first applications of real GIS. Later, GIS technology was

successfully applied to visualise water resources and river networks. Very rapid accumulation of

GIS-based data encouraged the development of GIS analysis tools. GIS users from different fields

could easily share information and compare spatially referenced data, overlay different GIS layers and

obtain new information.

The first steps of GIS applications for the estimation of hydropower resource in river basins were

made in the UK [16]. In many countries, spatial data are provided for free, which makes many tasks of

specific fields easily resolvable.

An especially important step in GIS history was the development of DEM (Digital Elevation

Model). They enable the study of land forms and, in a very short time, can access many hydrological

and morphometric characteristics of a river basin. The input data for DEM generation comes from

different sources, e.g., raw LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data, old topographical maps,

satellite images or aerial photography. Each source requires different technologies for data processing

and gives a different result considering DEM accuracy and costs of data processing. Analysing DEM

together with other data layers (e.g., soil data, land use, and protected areas) more based and accurate

estimations of hydropower planning are obtained that take the already existing network of hydropower

into consideration. A general GIS application flowchart for estimating hydropower resources is

presented in Figure 2.Using LIDAR technology only for SHP projects is currently too expensive and cannot compete

with the common practice of DEM generation [23,36]. However, this situation is rapidly changing


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because this technology is used in very different practical fields (such as geodetic works, flood

mapping, forests, and road development). By overlaying a segmented river network over the DEM, the

elevation drop for each river reach can be obtained easily. By integrating runoff time series, flow

duration curves, and annual flow data in GIS based models, power and energy maps can be produced.

More detailed steps are described in Figure 3.

Figure 2.GIS hydropower assessment tool. General model process flowchart.


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Figure 3. Detailed scheme of GIS application for hydropower estimation in the river

basin: (a) The river basin foreseen for hydropower development. A-catchment area,

H-elevation drop, Q- stream flow, P-stream power; (b) The river split into equal reaches

(h5, h6, h7-elevation of water level at the end of river reach). The input data: hydrographic

network and DEM of river basin; (c) Estimation of stream segment catchment area. The

input data: hydrographic network and river catchment area with DEM; (d) Calculation of

monthly river flow for every segment to obtain the input data from GIS layers;

(e) Calculation of hydropower potential; (f) Evaluation of limiting factors for every reach

(such as protected areas, agriculture, and forests).

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e)

12

3

4

5

7 8

9

10

H10

H9

P10=9,81Q10H10

P9=9,81Q9H9

P1=9,81Q1H1

.

Q8Q9

Q10

(f)


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The input data are the hydrographic network layer and the digital elevation model. First, the river

course is automatically divided into equal segments using the usual tools of GIS (Figure 3b). Second,

at each division point going down from the upstream and using a specially developed GIS tool and the

DEM, the basin area up to the determined section is calculated (Figure 3c). With the catchment area

and applying the usual methods of hydrological calculations, the monthly basin runoff is computed

(Figure 3d). With the elevation drop and runoff for each section, the stream power can be easily

calculated (Figure 3e). This procedure is performed for each river segment from the upper to the lower

reaches of the river and estimates all of the potential. It is absolutely clear that multiple environmental

considerations reduce the likelihood that a site may be developed to its physical potential. Therefore,

screening out sites within parks and other environmentally sensitive or excluded areas will result in the

actual hydropower potential (Figure 3f).

Analysing the application of GIS software for potential assessments, the common ArcGIS tools

developed by ESRI (Environmental Systems Research Institute) are generally used. Especially suitabletools are ArcGIS Spatial Analyst and the recently developed ArcGIS extension, ArcHydro [37], which

allows the user to set a number of hydrological parameters used by hydrologic models as input data.

Many hydrological models as they are today, without the use of GIS for the preparation of input data,

cannot be used. Each hydrological model requires much of the input data prepared by other means, and

the use of GIS would be either impossible or uneconomic. Using the DEM of the river basin, soils and

land cover thematic layers and the river network, the number of required input data for the hydrological

model, a sub-basin separation procedure and similar can be quickly and efficiently calculated.

The same can be said of 1D or 2D hydraulic models. Only with the proper tools of GIS can a

detailed digital model of the surface be developed for the river bed and its valley, including the erecteddams as well as the surface roughness distribution along the river bed [38].

A separate case of GIS application is the development of the map with a spatial distribution of FDC

parameters. The parameters of the FDC obtained at the point of gauging stations are transferred to the

attribute table of the new GIS layer and are later used for spatial analysis. By applying appropriate

methods for the spatial interpolation of these parameters, their values can be determined for the

ungauged river basins.

3.3. Review of Case Studies for SHP Assessment Based on GIS Tools

An analysis of the advanced experience in a number of countries using GIS technology for the

assessment of hydropower resources and potential construction sites is analysed. Some countries have

developed interactive maps of these resources, which are available on websites indicating site locations

and the main technical and economical parameters, enabling users freely obtain the necessary

information, while others do not display the data on the Internet or provide it to a limited extent.

3.3.1. Canada

In 2007, the Rapid Hydropower Assessment Model (RHAM) developed by KWL [39] was used to

assess the run-of-river hydroelectric potential for the Province of British Columbia (BC), Canada, for

an area of approximately 950 thousand square kilometres [20]. Over 8000 potential hydroelectric

opportunities were identified. A powerful geographic information systems-based computer model


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enabled the assessment to be completed in four months. RHAM was developed using an ArcGIS 9.2

platform with the Spatial Analyst extension from ESRI Canada. GIS data sources incorporated into the

model included DEM data from Natural Resources Canada and hydrology data from the B. C. Ministry

of Environment (Table 2). RHAM was run for the entire province.

Table 2.Data sources for hydropower assessment [39].

Dataset Data Type Accuracy Source Description

Canadian Digital

Elevation Data

DEM/1:250K

resolutionGeobase Continuous representation of surface relief

Normal Annual

Runoff Isolines

Vector/500 mm

contour intervalLRDW Normal annual depth of runoff

BC Watershed AtlasVector/based on

1:20K mapping

LRDW/Water

Management

Branch

Topographic reference for mapped

hydrologic features

HYDAT Data 2005 TabularWater Survey

Canada (WSC)

Daily flow data recorded and archived by

WSC for all of Canada.

Hydrologic Zones Vector/1:2M LRDW29 regions of hydrologically similar areas

in BC

Using DEM and mean annual run-off information, the unique algorithm of RHAM can identify

every significant stream and river within a given area, their respective flow rates throughout the year,

and the maximum elevation drops along each reach within a given distance. The model does this by

running both a topographical and a hydrological analysis simultaneously. RHAM calculates the

amount of hydroelectric power available on all streams in a study area, screening out sites within parks

and environmentally sensitive areas, and estimates project costs.

Although the model performed well from the beginning, KWL made adjustments to ensure that it

provided accurate results. For example, in some flat areas, the engineers corrected the DEM data to

ensure that streams flowed in the correct direction.

RHAM can also assess the suitability of hydroelectric development in a given area, taking into

account economic, environmental and social factors, and can assess storage hydro and clustered

developments. For British Columbia, this software tool is available on the Internet [40]. RHAM is

being applied in other parts of the world to unlock hydroelectric potential.

3.3.2. France

For the evaluation of hydro potential at a regional scale in France, an innovative numerical

methodology was developed by combining GIS, the hydrologic and hydrographic characteristics of

sub-basins and rainfall maps [41]. Taking into account the existing capacities and the potential of

existing non-hydroelectric dams, the tool made it possible to evaluate the residual hydropower

potential. The results, together with the outcomes of other studies, were presented on maps for each of

the main river basins that covered all of France. Much data collection was required, which covered

the following:


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Hydrologic and hydrographic characteristics of the basins;

Rainfall and runoff distribution;

Characteristics of existing capacities, non-hydroelectric dams, already identified projects, and

Various types of environmental protection, which could interfere with the development of

hydroelectric projects.

Regarding existing environmental protection, a ranking process was proposed for identified

hydro resources, resulting in four categories of potential from available for development to

non-exploitable potential.

3.3.3. Italy

A methodology to evaluate the residual hydropower potential in Italy, taking into account the

current uses (such as irrigation and drinking water), with a numerical technique coupled with a GIS

was proposed [42]. The model applied through GIS technology coupled the hydrological and

hydrographical characteristics of nearly 1,500 interconnected sub-basins and rainfall maps. Maps of

maximum and residual hydropower potential were produced and were found to be quite helpful tools

to support the power authorities decision makers and other stakeholders in creating energy master

plans and in implementing small hydro plants.

The macro-basin borders were obtained from the Italian digital elevation model (90 m 90 m

definition grid), through an ArcGIS tool called Hydrology modelling. The rainfall distribution over

each elementary basin was the main parameter used to determine the flow and consequently to

calculate the hydropower potential. The input data were taken from the mean rainfall map, which wasprocessed by the so-called spline interpolation method. The water stream discharge was obtained

using the runoff coefficients. The maximum hydropower potential was determined using maps of

water resource availability (that is, the discharge profiles of each river) and the related geodetic heads.

Water withdrawals, including instream (ecological) flow requirements, were taken into account to

determine the real residual hydropower potential for a pilot catchment. A detailed description of this

interactive GIS and Web-based map, VAPIDRO ASTE, can be found at [18].

3.3.4. Norway

To fully understand the potential for small hydro (50 kW to 10 MW), the Norwegian Water and

Energy Directorate (NVE) developed a new method for resource mapping using GIS technology

between 2002 and 2004 [4346]. The method involved identifying waterfalls with the potential for

hydro development and then adding available hydrological data and cost figures for intakes,

waterways, and power stations. ArcGIS standard hydrologic analysis was used to derive runoff.

Certain limitations were set with regard to the river slope, elevation, runoff volume, maximum usable

flow, installed power, and production. The plant design was fixed automatically as soon as the head

and flow were known, and the power output and generation capacity was automatically calculated.

This study identified 18 million MWh of potential.

A second generation version of this methodology, which resulted in the preparation of the Small

Hydropower Atlas, corrected some weaknesses of the earlier method. These weaknesses included


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possible mistakes in the data used to build the DEM (25 m 25 m grid cells), the lack of high-quality

data on distribution lines, the difficulties in assessing the correct cost for access roads, the inability of

the model to include specific local conditions, and a conservative cost estimate that leads to cost

figures that are too high.

Potential sites for small hydropower (NVE Atlas) are now available on the Internet, which provides

developers with the location of prospective SHP plants, their power capacity and the main economic

estimate, which is the total investment divided by the mean annual generation capacity, i.e., the cost of

kWh produced [47].

3.3.5. Scotland

Hydrobot is a combined GIS and financial assessment tool to identify micro-hydro schemes [48]. It

was first conceived as a university project and operated as a series of processes rather than a single

model. The model was first used for a study commissioned by the Forum for Renewable EnergyDevelopment in Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government to assess the nations remaining hydro

potential [49]. Hydrobot can be applied to any land area within Scotland and the top sites supplied to

those developers.

Hydrobot is based on a surface flow model derived from elevation data in a 10 m 10 m grid

across the whole of Scotland. Every watercourse has been modelled to give the FDC at any point. The

accuracy of the predicted flows has been tested against measured flows away from established gauging

stations and also examined by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency. Hydrobot can be

accessed at [50].

3.3.6. The United States

The Virtual Hydropower Prospector (VHP) is a GIS application designed to assist users in locating

and assessing natural stream water energy resources in the United States [51]. It was developed as part

of the Small Hydropower Resource Assessment and Technology Development Project conducted at

the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) with the support of the U.S. Department of Energy Wind and

Hydropower Technologies Program.

The intended use of VHP is to obtain a broad overview of water energy resources in an area of

interest or to perform a preliminary development feasibility assessment of particular sites of interest.The location of features and the associated attribute information are for indication only. Actual on-site

locations, measurements, and evaluations must be undertaken to verify information presented by VHP

and assess true development feasibility. VHP was designed and developed using ESRIs commercial

GIS software, ArcIMS 9.0, for the Web and mapping interface. Its main features are as follows:

GIS tool on the Internet;

No special software or licenses required for use;

Displays 500,000 water energy resource sites and 130,000 feasible project sites throughout

the U.S.;

Displays context features needed to perform preliminary feasibility assessments;

Provides tools for locating and selecting features of interest, and

Goes beyond geographic location and provides attribute information about selected features.


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The first step in using this tool is to select one of the 20 U.S. hydrologic regions using the Region

Selector available on the Internet (Virtual Hydropower Prospector)[5]. Each region selected will open

a new map window for that region.

3.3.7. Concluding Remarks

The general features of GIS integrated software for preliminary SHP site assessment are presented

in Table 3. The analysis of conventional hydro software tools for a preliminary SHP site assessment

shows that, over the past 15 years, they have evolved considerably and can now account for a complex

evaluation of the river basin. In particular, a large step in SHP assessment was the integration of these

software tools into the GIS environment, the penetration of GIS to the Web and the advent of remote

sensing techniques.

In general, for the application of GIS for assessing hydropower potential, several typical

components can be identified:

Gathering of river basin hydrological characteristics and associated attribute information as

spatial GIS data and later using them for broad-based analysis;

Development of a DEM for the river basin using a variety of primary sources as input data for

GIS database development and for later use in the hydropower potential evaluation;

Development of SHP assessment tools as specialised GIS extensions and integrating them into

GIS systems;

Performance of SHP evaluation and presentation of the results by GIS tools and their interactive

use on the Internet.In a review of GIS applications in precedent worldwide cases, not all of the steps listed above in the

cases analysed were found, but some components are always available. Developers of hydropower

software tools generally do not develop GIS tools themselves but prefer using standard ones or those

created by others. For instance, the GIS application StreamStats is capable of computing estimates of

streamflow at ungauged sites [7]. In countries with more advanced technology, they do not need to

produce the DEM because it has already been developed for the whole country. Many countries have

also created GIS databases of the hydrographic network and protected areas, soils and other areas.

Among the cases not mentioned, it is possible to list the countries that have introduced advanced

weather and water quality monitoring systems that automatically send data from monitoring points

directly to GIS databases and are available on the Web (e.g., the US). In the context of SHP potential

assessment using GIS tools in different countries, the required resources are quite different.


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Energies 2011, 4

Table 3.GIS-based Small Hydropower Atlases on the Internet.

SHP Atlas on the Internet Features

Name DeveloperApplicable

countriesAccessibility

Hydrology

Powerand

energy

PossibleSHP

sites

NVE Atlas. Potential

for SHP plants [47]

Norwegian Water

Resources and Energy

Directorate (NVE)

Norway

Open access,

interactive

Web-based maps

MAF + +

Virtual Hydropower

Prospector (VHP) [5]

Idaho National

LaboratoryUS

Open access,

interactive

Web-based maps

MAF + +

RHAM [40]Kerr Wood Leidal

Associates Ltd (KWL)

British

Columbia,

Canada

Open access,

interactive

Web-based maps

MAF/

FDC+ +

Hydrobot [50]Nick Forrest Associates

Ltd. et al.Scotland Limited access FDC + +

VAPIDRO ASTE [18] ERSE SpA, Italy

Open access,

interactive

Web-based maps

MAF + +

MAF: Mean annual flow; FDC: Flow duration curve.


16/40

Energies 2011, 4 1273

In most proposed hydropower assessment tools, GIS is often used for the presentation of results in

the form of digital maps, which is very convenient for users. With those maps, the user can also

perform a limited number of GIS operations (queries, etc.). Before moving the data into the GIS

database, complex hydrological modelling can be performed, and only simulation results are later

transferred to the database. An example is the development of the VAPIDRO-ASTE tool [18]. Some

modules are directly integrated into the GIS environment, and some of them operate as a standalone,

which performs the necessary calculations and integrates the result into the GIS database.

GIS applications for hydropower potential assessment may have a quite different approach, which

obviously depends on the form of the input data resources and possibilities, to integrate developed

tools into the GIS environment because there were a variety of tools developed before the appearance

of the GIS software. Therefore, it is more useful to use them separately from GIS and then transfer the

results into GIS.

4. Conclusions

During the last 15 years, hydropower assessment tools based on computer software have improved

considerably, accounting particularly for the complex integration of river catchment attributes. This

improvement is due mainly to the advent of geographic information systems (GIS).

With recent advances in GIS technology and the increased availability of high-quality topographic

and hydrologic data, it is now possible to rapidly assess power potential on a widespread basis

while maintaining a relatively high level of detail. In most countries, GIS data are free of charge.

For hydropower project studies, remote sensing (e.g., LIDAR), which is becoming cost effective

compared with conventional surveying, has represented a leap forward in producing digital

elevation models, especially in areas that are difficult to access.

Using DEM and regional hydrologic data, these software tools are able to calculate the amount of

hydropower available on all streams in a study area, screening out sites within environmentally

sensitive or excluded areas, and to estimate project costs.

A number of countries (e.g., Canada, Italy, Norway, Scotland and the US) have re-assessed their

hydropower capacities based on the spatial information of their water stream catchments, developed

tools for automated hydro-site identification and published Web-based GIS tools, the so-called

Atlas of small-scale hydropower resources, for open use. Their experience can be applied to other

parts of the world to unlock hydropower potential.

It is absolutely clear that a reliable assessment of real SHP site feasibility implies some on the

ground surveying, but this traditional assessment can be greatly facilitated with computer

programs if the GIS technique involving the spatial variability of catchment characteristics

is integrated.


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Energies 2011, 4 1274

Acknowledgement

This paper is based on the findings of the EU partially funded projects, Small Hydro Action for the

Promotion of efficient solutions (SHAPES; 20072010; No. TREN/07/FP6EN/S07.74894/038539)and Stream Map for Small Hydropower in the EU (SHP STREAMMAP; 20092012;

No. IEE/08/697/SI2.529232). The project coordinator was the European Small Hydropower Association

(ESHA). The authors would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments.

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21/40

SMALL HYDRO

POWER PLANTS


22/40

Small hydropower project

A successful small hydropower project depends on a big reservoir of experience,

because the challenges are diverse and intricate.

Alstoms small hydro projects cover a wide range of situations:

Run-of-river plants built on flood-prone alluvial plains, to reservoirs built in narrow rockyvalleys.

Remote-controlled facilities powering isolated local networks to team managed free-dischargesubsystems in large dams connected to national grids.

Minimal heads as low as a few metres to high heads of up to 1,000 m. Fixed conditions to sudden or seasonal variations.

Cost to performance considerations and shorter delivery expectations make every small hydro

project a unique endeavour. Technical ingenuity and far-sighted project management are needed

to balance all the constraints of excavation, grid code requirements, environmental legislation,

discharge and head variations and water particle content. Because Alstom is an experienced

global hydropower leader, we have the know-how to face these challenges head-on.

Experience of a global leader

As a leading turbine designer and manufacturer we offer the widest possible range of original

equipment in modular solutions to reduce costs and speed delivery times. Working with you we

select and then enhance a modular solution with custom engineering to ensure the perfect

configuration and implementation. Our goal is to capture the full hydro potential of every site

while taking into account landscape integration and lifetime environmental impact.


23/40

Small plants

big challenges

Clean Power, Clear Solutions04How Alstom is helping you meet the challengesof energy sustainability

A complete portfolio10For all heads and discharge rates

Technological know-how16Global experience, local expertise

Advanced tehnologies18Driven by customer value

Small hydro06We offer all the options

Proven solutions12Backed by innovation

03


24/40

Our Power generation offering is based on a deep understanding of power

markets and our customers needs. It is organised around three levers

to maximise the return of assets over their entire lifecycle.

It takes competitive assets to keepelectricity affordable. We enable

power companies to compete

successfully in the marketplace

and provide affordable electricity to

consumers. We help you reduce the

cost of electricity through:

Efficiency improvements

CAPEX reduction / scaling up

Capacity Factor increase

(renewable)

Lead time reduction

Competitive O&M

Competitive financing

Clean generation is one way ofdemonstrating environmental

responsibility. Another is lowering

resource usage, visual impact and

noise pollution. In both cases, we

can help you meet or exceed

regulations and environmental

standards. That is why Alstom

innovates in the following areas:

Renewable portfolio

Natural resource optimisation

Pollutants control

(SOx, NOx, PM, mercury)

CO2 emission reduction & CCS

Land use, visual impact and noise

Water intensity reduction

& recyclability

Intermittent power generation is agrowing challenge of energy security,

as is maintaining an aging installed

base and adapting it to changing

market conditions. We help you

tackle both issues so that you can

enjoy dependable operations with:

Maintainability and outage

time reduction

Operational and fuel flexibility

Lifetime extension

and power uplift

Designs and service for improved

availability and reliability

Climate packages

Energy storage

04

How Alstom is helping youClean Power


25/40

ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY : A GLOBAL CHALLENGE

people globally lacks electricity.

1 in 5of renewable energies in global

electricity generation.

Only20%rise of the global energy-related

carbon dioxide emissions could

happen by 2035.

A 20%

05

meet the challenges of energy sustainabilityClear Solutions


26/40

Our Hydro PlantLifeprogramme segments operation and maintenance into three service

modules, adapted to the age and condition of each plant.

ASSESSIt begins with assessment of the site. We offer: hydro assets audit, condition assessments, reverse

engineering, lifetime forecast analysis and technical site surveys.

SECURE & EXTENDOur proactive services focus on securing operations and extending lifetime: modernisation and cost of

ownership, lifetime extension, operations, maintenance and emergency repair, condition monitoring,

penstock and gate security, customer support line, spare parts and training.

RESET & UPGRADEWhen a big change is necessary, we can help with: change of operating pattern, upgrading,

environmentally-friendly upgrade, or as-is replacement.

Hydro PlantLife

Alstom provides a complete range for small hydro.Our equipment covers up to 30 MW per unit, with heads up to 1,000 m and discharge rates up to 200 m3/s. While we recommend our

turnkey capabilities and Plant IntegratorTMservices for the ultimate in cost-effectiveness, reliability and availability, we can also work with

variable scopes down to single component solutions.

COMPREHENSIVE PERSPECTIVE:Alstom can take care of all customer requirements throughout the life of the plant from technologydevelopment, engineering and project design, equipment manufacture, project erection and commissioning, operation and maintenance,through to refurbishment and life extension. This comprehensive capability means that Alstom is able to fully understand and meet the

customers requirements throughout all phases of the plants life, whilst always delivering the optimum solution.

MAXIMISING LIFETIME VALUE:Alstoms goal is to devise a solution that creates the most value for your plant investment over the entire

life cycle. That is why we offer new solutions, retrofits, refurbishments or upgrades tailored and optimised according to your specific needs.

MODULAR, SCALEABLE PLATFORMS: all our small hydro solutions are built using modular concepts. Once the ideal turbine type has beendetermined a standard design can be picked and the configuration developed to perfectly suit your project concept. By working with triedand tested designs with standardised interfaces, Alstom ensures that the planning, procurement and installation is rapid and cost effective.All our designs take into account the full lifecycle and optimise questions of operation and maintenance, mitigating risk at all stages.

POSSIBLE SCOPES:Alstom provides a range of scopes, including plant integration expertise to optimise the complete plant configuration,custom engineering to solve site specific challenges, single components to integrated turnkey systems or plants or off-the shelf technology

from Alstom or partner suppliers.

06

We offeSmall hydro


27/40

Mitigate your risksEvery small hydro plant owner is seeking to reduce risk and

secure their return on investment, before, during and after

construction. Choosing Alstom is a wise decision because,as a one-stop-shop with a global track record, we are ideally

positioned to mitigate project risks such as:

construction cost overruns schedule shifts and delays failure to meet performance guarantees

recurring outages unpredictable operation and maintenance costs

Key benefits

GLOBAL LEADER: Alstom has commissioned almost 1,000 small hydro power plants (SHPP) worldwide. In the last decade alone,Alstom has commissioned 3.3 GW and more than 130 plants with units up to 30 MW, covering all types of turbines and plant arrangements.

UNEQUALLED COMPUTATIONAL & TEST RESOURCES: Alstom small hydro projects have access to the latest know-how, R&D, modellingand test tools developed for large hydro projects in our Global Technology Centres.

UNPARALLELED PORTFOLIO OF MODULAR DESIGNS: no other company can offer such a comprehensive portfolio of modular, scaleableand proven technologies and designs covering every element of a SHPP. Because we design and build all plant components, we are ideallypositioned to integrate the individual plant elements most efficiently.

GREEN SOLUTIONS AND ENVIRONMENT: Alstoms constant commitment to R&D for greener solutions allows customers to implementenvironmentally-friendly projects, such as oil-free hydrostatic bearings, fish-friendly turbines and compact footprints.

TURNKEY EXPERIENCE: Alstom designs and supplies its own turbines, generators and control systems. Customers therefore have a singlesource for all their needs, simplifying project management and ensuring projects are delivered on time and on budget.

OUR COMPREHENSIVE RANGE: because we have a comprehensive range of turbines, you can be sure to find the exact design thatperforms optimally for your project.

GLOBAL FOOTPRINT WITH LOCAL PRESENCE: with technology centres worldwide, Alstom has an in-depth knowledge of the specifichydro needs of local markets and it has the local knowledge to design products that are ideal for local conditions.

Whether plant owners require a new facility or are simply looking to upgrade or renew

an existing installation, Alstom has the experience, know-how and mix of technologies

to provide the right solution.

Alstoms SHPP Solutions Application Range

07

all the options


28/40


29/40

Small hydro power plant in Gallur (Spain)

1 x 1.6 MW SAM


30/40

Bulb family:very low & low heads

Alstoms Bulb family, comprising Bulb and PIT solutions, is idealfor run-of-river projects with high to very high discharges.

The straight water passage and horizontal axis improves

hydraulic behaviour and allows low submergence.

A further benefit of Alstoms bulb solutions is their outstanding

ability to handle significant head and discharge variations due to

the double regulated arrangement.

Bulb: best performanceHEADS UP TO 15 M; OUTPUT UP TO 20 MWAlstoms Bulb solutions are undoubtedly the worlds most reliable.

Furthermore, the latest developments in hydraulic profile design

ensure the highest levels of efficiency over significant discharge

variations.

PIT: cost effectivenessHEADS UP TO 20 M; OUTPUT UP TO 25 MWPIT is an evolution of Bulb turbines specifically designed for

small hydro applications. While Bulb designs have the generator

submerged and directly coupled to the turbine, PIT solutions use

a gearbox to increase the generator speed and allow alternative

positioning of the generator. This enables an open pit above

the turbine for easy maintenance access, cost efficient installation

and service.

S-type family:low heads, more powerS-type turbines are an evolution of traditional Kaplan turbinesspecifically developed for small hydro applications.

Alstoms scalable S-type solutions rely on standardised, proven

designs, guaranteeing reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Alstom has extensive experience with over 70 units commissioned

in the last decade.

SAM: best performance and optimised costHEADS UP TO 40 M; OUTPUT UP TO 25 MWSAM is Alstoms upstream elbow, the latest evolution of S-type

solutions featuring a horizontal axis, straight draft tube and double

regulated turbine directly coupled to the generator. It is dedicated to

run-of-river, low height dam projects, with high discharge rates and

wide variations in head and discharge. Compared to other S-type

turbines, Alstoms SAM solutions offer higher performance, greater

reliability and reduced excavation.

SAXO: simple and compactHEADS UP TO 25 M; OUTPUT UP TO 10 MWWhen space is limited, for example when integrating into an

existing plant, a SAXO solution can be the ideal answer.

Alstoms SAXO is equivalent to a vertical axis SAM connected to an

elbow-type draft tube for a compact, efficient solution.

10

For all headsA complete


31/40

For more than 100 years, Alstom has been a leading force in hydropower having

installed more than 25% of the total global hydropower capacity.

Vertical Kaplan family:broad rangeVertical Kaplan turbines provide high efficiency over a broadrange of heads and discharge rates.

KV: easy site adaptationHEADS UP TO 50 M; OUTPUT UP TO 30 MWAlstoms vertical axis double-regulated Kaplan solutions are

compact and minimise the civil works required.

They also cover the greatest range of power and discharge rates.Their numerous technical possibilities facilitate the adaptation

to project and site constraints.Application Range of Low Head Solutions

Alstoms SHPP Kaplan Family

11

nd discharge ratesportfolio


32/40

Francis family:medium head solutionsFrancis turbines are the most widely used and highly efficientturbines in the world.

Alstom has commissioned more than 130 units up to 30 MW in the

last decade. Our complete range of standardised Francis turbines

for SHPPs offer wide adaptability for unequalled efficiency levels

and drastically reduced cavitation risk.

Francis Horizontal Single discharge (FHS)HEADS UP TO 350 M; OUTPUT UP TO 15 MWThis is often the preferred SHPP Francis solution since it reduces

civil works and turbine-generator submergence. It also provides

easier access for maintenance and simplified erection.

Francis Horizontal Double discharge (FHD)HEADS UP TO 100 M; OUTPUT UP TO 20 MWSimilar to the single discharge arrangement but better suited

to higher discharges.

Francis Vertical arrangement (FV)HEADS UP TO 400 M; OUTPUT UP TO 30 MWSuitable for larger plants with a higher power output.

Application Range of Medium Head Solutions

Alstoms SHPP Francis Family

Application Range of High Head Solutions

Alstoms SHPP Pelton Family

12

Backed byProven solutions


33/40

Leveraging our experience and global network, we offer unique solutions based on

proven state-of-the-art technologyand project-specific research and development.

Pelton family:for high headsPeltons are the turbine of choice for high heads, fastresponse and rapid power output adjustment capability.

The characteristics of Pelton turbines make them ideal for

peak production, ancillary services such as network frequency

and voltage regulation, reactive power production and reservegenerating capacity.

The vast majority of Alstoms Pelton units have forged runnersto reduce mechanical fatigue and use two bearing technology

for a more compact powerhouse. Hard coatings for silt abrasion

protection are available.

Vertical 4- to 6-jet Pelton (PV)HEADS UP TO 1000 M; OUTPUT UP TO 30 MWThese turbines deliver high power and, because of the Multi-jet

arrangement, are suitable for a wide operating range.

Horizontal 2-jet Pelton (PH)HEADS UP TO 1000 M; OUTPUT UP TO 25 MWThese are the ideal solution when cost-effective configurations are

needed.

Patented solutionsAlways at the forefront of innovation, Alstom provides patented

designs such as the Hooped Pelton runner which has a number of

significant advantages.

First, each bucket is manufactured separately and is attached to the

runner by two hoops. This effectively separates the hydraulic and

torque transmission functions between the bucket and the hoops

respectively, which increases reliability, consequently, greatly and

reduces inspection frequency.

Second, vibrations are reduced by as much as 90%.

Third, with this component design, the supply chain can be

optimised to speed delivery times and, later, damaged buckets can

be replaced individually providing further savings.

Last, smaller component sizes allow higher quality materials and

the application of better silt abrasion protection coatings.

13

nnovation


34/40


35/40

Alstom offers a complete portfolio of power generation

equipment and services for all fuel types. By 2030 theworld will have seen a significant change in the powergeneration mixwith an increased share of CO2-free andrenewable power. Alstom will continue to play a strong

role in the booming hydropower market.


36/40

Specialist production sites embedded in the global Alstom network

Grenoble (France)Global Technology Centre

Manufacturing

Vadodara (India)Global Technology Centre

Manufacturing

Birr (Switzerland)Global Technology CentreManufacturing

Sorel-Tracy (Canada)Global Technology Centre

Manufacturing

Taubat (Brazil)Manufacturing

Bilbao (Spain)Manufacturing

Levallois-Perret (France)Headquarters

Tianjin (China)Global Technology CentreManufacturing

GTC Global Technology CentreAlstoms Global Technology Centres are advanced research and development locations

where we pursue fundamental research and/or run state-of-the-art hydraulic scale

model testing. Alstoms test rigs are capable of simulating operating conditions

identical to those in a hydropower plant so that we can study and verify complex

hydraulic phenomena that are still beyond the scope of the most advanced computer

simulations. The benefits flow back into our standard modular designs and custom

engineering projects.

Alstom has Global Technology Centres in Grenoble (France the lead centre),

Vadodara (India), Sorel-Tracy (Canada), Birr (Switzerland), Taubat (Brazil) and Tianjin

(China). Further R&D facilities and resources are based around the world.

Using common platforms for product development across all facilities promotes

effective international collaboration.

Solving low head challengesThe lower the head, the more important the hydraulic profile.

Therefore, besides the right turbine type, the perfect hydraulic

pathway needs to be determined to ensure that power output is

optimal even when discharge and levels vary. Low heads also drive

turbines at relatively low speeds while generating high torques

posing mechanical challenges. As a turbine specialist with a

long OEM (original equipment manufacturer) heritage and globalportfolio of successful projects, Alstom can reliably solve these

challenges.

16

Global experienceTechnologica


37/40

Project highlights worldwideThanks to our global footprint, Alstom has an excellent portfolio of international small hydro references.

Our local reach and know how complements our global technology to optimise each project.

SANTA F (BRAZIL)2 x 15 MW SAM (head: 33 m)

Originally conceived as two KVs, Alstomproposed two horizontal SAMs to better

exploit the full site and project potentialwhile limiting environmental impact.

GALLUR (SPAIN)1 x 1.6 MW SAM (head: 20 m)

In the Spanish province of Zaragoza thehistoric Canal Imperial de Aragn has been

an important waterway for almost 400 yearsthat is being increasingly used for modern

SHPPs. The Gallur plant supplies electricityto some major industries such as Opel,

Tudor and Vicasa that have recently settledin the area.

SEYRANTEPE (TURKEY)2 x 28 MW FV (head: 32 m)

The 31 m Seyrantepe dam is built on thePeri water of the Euphrates and it powers

two units with an installed capacity of56 MW. Coming into operation in 2008,

annual average production has been about

180 million kWh.

MILLER CREEK (CANADA)1 x 3.5 MW PH (head: 762 m) and

1 x 30 MW PV (head: 668 m)The Miller Creek run-of-river project on atributary of the Lillooet captures water atelevations of 1,100 m and 1,200 m with

a 3 m high wall creating a two hectarereservoir. The water then travels through a

4 km steel penstock to the 31 MW stationon the lower reach of the creek.

OURINHOS (BRAZIL)3 x 15 MW PIT (head: 11 m)

Ourinhos was a significant technicalaccomplishment, thanks to the three Alstom

15 MW Pit turbines which deliver a total of45 MW from a head of only 10 m.

After 40,000 hours it has already inspired

several other run of the river plants in Braziland parts of the Amazon.

DALVATN (NORWAY)1 x 10 MW FHS (head: 190 m)

Dalvatn power plant in Rogaland wasoriginally built in 1922 and had an installed

capacity of 15 MW. In 1978 the old station(called Sauda II) was demolished replaced

with a plant with an installed capacity of24 MW. In 2006, the 10 MW FHS was

added with a new waterway tunnel in themountains.

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ocal expertiseknow-how


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Plant Integrator optimising the value chainThe Plant Integrator approach creates real value for our customers by optimising the entire value chain and the overall plant performance.

This approach goes beyond the typical product compilation simply aimed at reducing costs. As an OEM, EPC and O&M provider, Alstom

has a unique perspective that allows the analysis of the whole plant and the full lifecycle as an integrated system. Using proven models

and established benchmarks, specific investment costs can be understood in their true context. Customers benefit from a greater range of

options to determine the solutions that are best-suited to their needs. These help them achieve their business objectives and consequently,

better serve their markets.

MICADUR for durable generatorsDeveloped and improved over 40 years, Alstoms Micadur process

results in a Class F insulation system for the stator windings that

gives outstanding electrical and mechanical properties. The result is

excellent long-term durability under all operating conditions.

Control and automation technologiesIn 2010, Alstom completed the development of the next generation

of its small hydro power plant control and automationportfolio. While maintaining a high level of availability and

performance, the new portfolio is focused on meeting essential

requirements of cost-effectiveness, simplicity and reliability.

SMARTCONTROL SXControl system with the latest proven technologies for

harsh real-time industrial environments.

SMARTGEN

A brushless excitation based on low maintenance technology,

which eliminates the need for regular cleaning to remove

carbon dust.

NEYRPICT.SLGA universal electronic governor based on proven technology and

designed for all types of hydro turbines, it is robust, fast and easy to

use or upgrade.

Drivenby customer value

We help you to maximise power output and profitability fromhydraulic studies to plant configuration and from construction to

maintenance.

Hydraulic innovation processApproximately forty new turbine hydraulic profiles are designed and

tested each year. Alstoms continuous hydraulic innovation processimproves performance and operating range from year to year,

maintaining Alstoms hydropower solutions as the global reference.

River water quality oil-free solutionsWater bearings make a plant greener because we completely avoid

oil lubrication of water path components. Furthermore, water is

highly incompressible making water bearings stiffer than their

oil counterparts which reduces vibration and noise and increases

reliability.

OIL-FREE HUB FOR KAPLANThe Kaplan includes self-lubricated blade bushings and waterfilled

hubs.

HYDROSTATIC WATER BEARINGSAnother oil-free solution with a self-centring system that also acts

as a shaft seal.

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Advanced technologies


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Rail transport

Electrical grid

Power generation

Alstom is a global leader in the world of power generation,power transmission and rail infrastructure and sets the benchmark for

innovative and environmentally friendly technologies.

Alstom builds the fastest train and the highest capacity automated metro

in the world, provides turnkey integrated power plantsolutions and associated services for a wide variety of energysources, including hydro, nuclear, gas, coal, wind, solar thermal,

geothermal and ocean energies. Alstom offers a wide range of solutionsfor power transmission, with a focus on smart grids.

Alstom

Alstom Poweroffers solutions which allow their customers togenerate reliable, competitive and eco-friendly power.

Alstom has the industrys most comprehensive portfolio of thermaltechnologies coal, gas, oil and nuclear and holds leading positions inturnkey power plants, power generation services and air quality control

systems. It is also a pioneer in carbon capture technologies.

Alstom offers the most comprehensive range of renewable power

generation solutions today: hydro power, wind power, geothermal, biomassand solar. With ocean energies, we are developing solutions for tomorrow.Alstom is one of the world leaders in hydro power,

the largest source of renewable energy on the planet.

Power generation


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Europe, Middle East and Africa

Alstom Hydro4, avenue Andr Malraux92309 Levallois-Perret CedexFrance

North America

Alstom Hydro Canada Inc.1350 chemin St-Roch

J3R 5P9 Sorel-Tracy, QubecCanada

Latin America

Alstom Hydro Energia Brasil LtdaAv. Charles Schneider12040-001 TaubatBrazil

China

Tianjin Alstom Hydro Co., LtdGaofeng Road, Beichen DistrictTianjin 300400

China

Asia

Alstom Projects India Ltd HydroManejaVadodara 390 013India

Alstom Renewable Power4, avenue Andr Malraux92309 Levallois-Perret Cedex

France

www.alstom.com

Documents

Small Hydro Power Plant - Development