| Small hydro
On the Nile
Another study has also proposed a new strategy for using small hydroelectric turbines in downstream branches of the Nile River in Egypt. Published in Scientific Reports, the authors experimentally evaluate the reading of velocity profiles that were collected in one of the most famous branches of the Nile River (the Menoufia Branch) just after the barrage. The study suggests that the available high flow rates and high pressure values can produce up to 0.75MW from a single station with the least amount of construction and the lowest cost. According to the nature of the waterway, Mohamed E.A.E. Ahmed et al say that the best diameter of a turbine that can be used is 1.5m based on water velocities and river depths. The proposed power plant generated 25.8kW per single turbine row, with an estimated cost of produced power (0.035 USD/ kWh) of approximately 20 turbines installed per row. Compared to other renewable energy sources, the proposed hydropower system is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as generating electricity with the proposed small hydropower plant could reduce
annual carbon dioxide emissions by 368 tonnes of CO2 per single turbine row.
Mexico Small hydropower projects have emerged as a
promising contribution set to play a vital role in Mexico’s renewable energy landscape. Research by Veronica Luis and Kathy Davis in the International Journal of Hydropower and Civil Engineering, has recently scrutinised the hydraulic implications and environmental repercussions of small hydro in the Mexican context (categorised as 10MW and below), delving into an assessment of their effects on watercourses, aquatic ecosystems, and local communities.
In conclusion, the authors say that the development of small hydro in Mexico “signifies a pivotal stride towards sustainable energy generation, aligning with the nation’s renewable energy goals”. In addition such projects, “characterised by lower environmental footprints and decentralised power generation, offer promising solutions for rural electrification and economic development”.
Development of small hydroelectric projects in Mexico Project Name
Rio Bravo SHP
La Cascada Project Sierra Madre SHP
San Miguelito Project La Presa SHP
Location Capacity (MW) Veracruz Chiapas Jalisco
Oaxaca Sonora
5 2 8 3 6
Above: Farm landscape in Nigeria. A new project backed by the European Union aims to boost small hydropower capacity in the country’s energy mix, increase agricultural productivity, and enhance food security
Below: The development of small hydro in Mexico has been described as being a pivotal step towards the country’s renewable energy goals
Status
Under Construction Operational
Permitting Phase
Environmental Review Feasibility Study
Expected Completion 2023
Completed Q4 2024 Pending Ongoing
www.waterpowermagazine.com | June 2024 | 27
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