ASSESSMENT OF MICRO TO SMALL HYDROPOWER POTENTIAL SITES OF NYABARONGO RIVER BASIN OF RWANDA

Abstract

The assessment of micro to small hydropower is very important for the electrical power generation of a country based on the hydrological data. This study has been conducted at Nyabarongo River Basin of Rwanda along with eights gauged stations with the purpose of assessing the hydropower potential based on micro to small hydropower potential sites. The hydrological data have been collected and analyzed and the missing data were filled by using the arithmetic mean, double mass curve was used to check its consistency. The arc SWAT with arc GIS were used for the identification of the sites and contour map was done by showing different heads which will help in calculation of the power output of the identified sites. The selected turbine was Francis turbine which is compatible with micro and small hydropower with the efficiency ranging between65-80% and in this study the efficiency of 75% was selected to be used. The total energy output from monthly flow for all sites was calculated and found to be1459.04 GWh, and the total energy output taken from flow duration curve was 1193.35GWh for all eight stations. Finally the community was informed and been told about the use or the advantages and the significances of the hydropower for their future life so that to protect and take care of the components of hydropower with its surroundings.