Hydropower

Hydropower, also known as hydroelectric power or water power, is the generation of electricity
by harnessing the energy of flowing or falling water. This is typically done using dams or water
reservoirs where the movement of water drives turbines connected to generators, producing
electricity. This is achieved by converting the gravitational potential or kinetic energy of a water
source to produce power. It is considered a renewable energy source.

Principal components of a hydroelectric power scheme

A hydroelectric power scheme is a system that uses the energy of moving water to generate
electricity.
The principal components of hydroelectric power scheme include:
● Fore bay
● Intake structure
● Surge tanks
● Penstocks
● Power house
● Turbines
● Generators
● Transformers
● Transmission lines

Fore bay
A forebay in a hydroelectric power plant is like a small pool that holds water from the reservoir
just before it flows into the pipes (penstocks) that lead to the turbines. It helps manage the water
flow, making sure it’s steady and clean before it reaches the turbines, which generate electricity.

Main Functions of a Forebay:

● Control Water Flow: It helps regulate how much water goes to the turbines.
● Keep Water Calm: It reduces water turbulence, so the flow is smooth.
● Remove Dirt: The forebay helps remove dirt and debris by slowing down the flow of
water, allowing heavier particles like sediment to settle at the bottom.
● Keep Water Levels Stable: It maintains a steady water level so the plant runs efficiently.
 ● Ensure Smooth Transition: It provides a calm, steady flow of water to the penstock.

Types of Forebays
● Open Forebay: Directly connected to the reservoir without barriers.
● Closed Forebay: Has gates or valves to control water flow.
● Semi-closed Forebay: Partially enclosed with screens to filter debris.

Intake structure
The intake structure is a key component that controls the entry of water from the reservoir or
forebay into the penstock. It typically consists of gates, valves, and screens to regulate the flow
of water and prevent debris from entering the system.

Types of Intake Structures:

● Side Intake: Placed on the side of the river or reservoir.
● Bottom Intake: Located on the riverbed or reservoir bed.
● Surface Intake: Floats on the surface of the water.
● Submerged Intake: Located below the water surface to avoid debris on top.

Surge tanks
A surge tank is a vertical or horizontal tank connected to the penstock that helps control sudden
changes in water flow and pressure. This keeps the system running smoothly and prevents
damage to the pipes and turbines.

Main Functions of a Surge Tank:

● Regulate Pressure: It controls the water pressure in the penstock, preventing it from
getting too high or too low.
● Stabilize Water Flow: It helps balance sudden changes in water flow, especially when the
turbine speeds up or slows down.
● Prevent Water Hammer: It stops the dangerous pressure spikes (water hammer) that can
happen when water flow suddenly stops or changes direction.
● Protect Turbines: It reduces the risk of damage to the turbines and other equipment by
keeping pressure stable.
● Manage Transient Flow: It smooths out quick fluctuations in water movement, helping
the power plant run efficiently.

Penstocks
Penstocks are large pipes, typically made of steel or concrete, that carry water from the forebay
(or intake structure) to the turbines in a hydroelectric power plant. They are designed to handle
high water pressure and control the flow of water to the turbines.
Main Functions of Penstocks:
● Water Conveyance: They transport water from the forebay directly to the turbine.
● Pressure Containment: They withstand high pressures (up to 1000 psi) to prevent leaks or
bursts.
● Flow Regulation: They help manage and control the amount of water flowing to the
turbines.
● Turbine Protection: They ensure a steady flow of water, protecting the turbines from
sudden changes in pressure.

Key Components of Penstocks:

● Pipes: These can be cylindrical or tapered, designed to carry water efficiently.
● Flanges: Used to connect the penstocks to valves, gates, or turbines.
● Valves: Control the flow of water, allowing for isolation or relief of pressure.
● Gates: Types include sluice, radial, or butterfly gates, used to manage water flow.
● Anchors: Keep the pipes securely in place to prevent movement.

Powerhouse

In a hydroelectric power scheme, the powerhouse is the structure that houses the turbines and
generators, where the mechanical energy from the flowing water is converted into electrical
energy. It is a critical component of the hydroelectric plant and includes all necessary equipment
for electricity generation, such as:

● Turbines: Devices that convert the kinetic energy of water into mechanical energy.
● Generators: Machines that convert mechanical energy from the turbines into electrical
energy.
● Control systems: Equipment that manages the operation of the turbines and generators

The powerhouse is typically located near the water source, often at the base of a dam.

Turbines
A turbine is a mechanical device that converts the kinetic energy of flowing or falling water into
mechanical energy. The water's movement causes the turbine's blades to spin, and this rotational
motion is used to drive a generator, which then produces electricity. The type of turbine used
depends on the height and flow rate of the water, with common types being Pelton, Francis, and
Kaplan turbines.

Types of Turbines:
● Impulse Turbines: Water hits the turbine blades directly, using its speed (e.g., Pelton,
Turgo turbines).
 ● Reaction Turbines: Water flows over the blades and creates pressure differences to turn
the turbine (e.g., Francis, Kaplan turbines).
● Axial Flow Turbines: Water flows parallel to the turbine’s shaft.
● Mixed Flow Turbines: Water flows in at an angle, combining axial and radial flows.
● Pump-Turbines: These can operate both as turbines and pumps, used in pumped storage
systems.

Generators
Generators are devices that convert mechanical energy from the rotating turbines into electrical
energy. When water flows through the turbines, it causes the turbine blades to spin. This
rotational energy is transferred to the generator, where magnets inside rotate around a coil of
wire, creating an electric current through electromagnetic induction.

Main Components:
● Stator: The stationary part where electricity is generated.
● Rotor: The rotating part that creates the magnetic field.
● Field Windings: Coils that produce the magnetic field in the rotor.
● Armature Windings: Coils in the stator where electricity is generated.
● Bearings: Support the rotating parts and ensure smooth operation.

Operating Principle
● The turbine rotates the rotor of the generator.
● The rotating rotor creates a magnetic field.
● The magnetic field induces a voltage in the stator windings.
● This generates alternating current (AC) electricity, which is then transmitted to the grid.

Transformers
A transformer is an electrical device that changes the voltage of the electricity generated by the
plant. After the turbine generates electricity at a lower voltage, the transformer increases (or
"steps up") the voltage to a higher level for efficient transmission over long distances through
power lines. At the receiving end, another transformer can reduce (or "step down") the voltage to
a safer level for distribution to homes and businesses.

Types of Transformers:
● Step-up Transformers: Increase the voltage for efficient long-distance transmission.
● Step-down Transformers: Decrease the voltage for safe distribution to homes or
businesses.
● Isolation Transformers: Separate two circuits to prevent electrical interference.
Transmission lines
Transmission lines are high-voltage power lines that carry the electricity generated at the power
plant over long distances to substations or directly to consumers.

Types of Transmission Lines:

● Overhead Lines: Transmission lines supported by towers or poles above ground.
● Underground Cables: Lines buried below the surface to carry electricity.
● Subsea Cables: Used to transmit power across water bodies.
● High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Lines: Special lines that transmit electricity
efficiently over very long distances.

Components:
● Conductors: The wires or cables that carry electricity.
● Insulators: Materials that prevent electricity from escaping the lines.
● Towers or Poles: Structures that hold the transmission lines above the ground.
● Foundations: The base structure that supports towers or poles.
● Switchgear and Substations: Equipment used to control and distribute electricity.

Merits of hydro power plants

● Renewable energy source

● Low operating costs
● Long lifespan
● Reliable power generation
● No greenhouse gas emissions during operation
● Provides flood control
● Supports water supply and irrigation
● Flexible energy output (can quickly adjust to demand)
● Energy storage through pumped storage
● Boosts local economies through job creation

Demerits of Hydropower Plants

● High initial construction costs

● Environmental impact on ecosystems
● Displacement of communities
● Dependency on water availability
● Risk of dam failure or flooding
● Limited suitable locations
● Long construction time
● Alters natural water flow
● Sediment buildup in reservoirs
● Potential for reduced water quality downstream