REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

ST. JOSEPH UNIVERSITY IN TANZANIA

THE GENERATION OF ELECTRICITY USING HYDRAULIC TURBINES AT

KIDATU HYDRO-POWER PLANT IN MOROGORO REGION, TANZANIA

CIVIL ENGINEERING AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT

STUDY TOUR REPORT

S/N NAME OF STUDENT REG.NO

1. HEZRON L EZEKIEL 21171051051

2. GERARD GERHARD HAULE 21171051034

3. SAGIRA EZEKIEL MONG’ATEKO 21171051052

JUNE 1, 2023
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

CONTENTS :

Chapter 1

❖ Introduction

❖ Mtera-kidatu reservoir details review

❖ Great Ruaha project

❖ Layout of the project

❖ Historical background of kidatu power plant

❖ Kidatu hydropower plant

❖ Status before Rehabilitation

Chapter 2

❖ Kidatu hydropower plant contractors

❖ Organization structure of kidatu power plant

❖ The project cost and finances

Chapter 3
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
❖ Operation structure of the kidatu hydropower plant and maintenance in
power house

Chapter 4

❖ Components of kidatu hydropower plant

❖ Switch yard

Chapter 5

❖ The contribution of kidatu hydropower plant to national GDP

Chapter 6

❖ Type of turbines at kidatu power plant

❖ The Francis turbine

❖ Pros of the Francis turbine

❖ Cons of the Francis turbine

Chapter 7

❖ Conclusion

❖ Recommendations
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

It is with great pleasure and gratitude that we present this report,

documenting our visit to the Kidatu Hydropower Plant. The purpose of this visit
was to gain practical insights into the functioning and operations of this
remarkable engineering marvel. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all
those who made this educational excursion possible.

First and foremost, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to

prof.Stanley H. Mneney, the Principal of St. Joseph College of Engineering and
Technology, for his unwavering support and permission to undertake this visit.
His encouragement and belief in the importance of practical learning
experiences have been instrumental in shaping our academic journey.

We would also like to extend our deepest appreciation to Mr. Kombe, the
Head of the Department, for his guidance and support throughout the
planning and execution of this visit. His expertise and dedication have been
invaluable in ensuring a seamless experience for all involved.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Engineer Selestine Agustino, our Applied

Hydraulic teacher, for his insightful teachings and guidance. His expertise in the
field of hydraulics has not only enlightened us but also prepared us for this
visit, allowing us to fully comprehend the intricate workings of the Kidatu
Hydropower Plant.

A special acknowledgment is due to Mr. Mahenda Stephen Mahenda, the

Kidatu Power Plant Manager, for granting us the opportunity to visit the power
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
plant. His kindness and willingness to share his knowledge have enriched our
understanding of the hydropower generation process.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Engineer Nicomed Mhina,

the Control Room Operator, for his exceptional explanation and demonstration
of the control room operations. His in-depth knowledge and clear
communication were pivotal in enhancing our understanding of the control
systems and their vital role in the plant's functioning.

Our heartfelt thanks also go to Engineer Mary, the Safety Manager, for
ensuring our visit was conducted in a safe and secure manner. Her meticulous
attention to safety protocols and commitment to our well-being is
commendable and greatly appreciated.

Last but not least, we extend our gratitude to Engineer Nelson, the Electrical
Technician Engineer of the power plant, for his comprehensive explanations
regarding the plant's electrical systems. His patience and willingness to answer
our questions contributed significantly to our understanding of the plant's
electrical operations.

We would also like to acknowledge the contributions of numerous other

individuals who have played a part in making this visit a success. Our gratitude
extends to the staff and employees of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant for their
warm hospitality and willingness to share their knowledge and experiences
with us.

In conclusion, we are deeply grateful to all those mentioned above for their
invaluable contributions in making our visit to the Kidatu Hydropower Plant a
truly enriching and memorable experience. Their support and guidance have
undoubtedly broadened our horizons and deepened our understanding of
hydropower generation. We hope this report effectively conveys the
knowledge and insights gained during our visit, inspiring future generations of
engineers to explore the realm of sustainable energy generation.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

CHAPTER 01
● INTRODUCTION

Electricity generation and its distribution play a major role in a country’s

development, and in this
technological era where electricity is classified as an engine of supporting
economic growth, Maximum attention has to be paid to its generation and
efficient operation if the country is to enjoy the comfort and
benefits it brings. This has to be done in an integrated manner.

This paper deals with the development of a simulation or an operational model

for the Mtera-Kidatu power plant Reservoir System by way of investigating the
failure of the system that occurred in the early 1990s. The
reservoir system comprises two reservoirs - the Mtera Reservoir and the
Kidatu Reservoir, with the former being upstream of the latter. The
investigation was intended to establish the cause of the failure of the
reservoir system in 1994 when water level in the Mtera Reservoir went very
close to its minimum level.

The estimation of inflows into the reservoirs is also dealt with in this paper
since rivers entering into them are not gauged at the rim of these reservoirs.
The gauges were destroyed after the impoundment of the river.

Therefore, one cannot say with a high level of confidence how much water
enters the reservoirs on a day-today basis without adequate mathematical
model of the same. This information is absolutely necessary for optimal
operation of the reservoir system as well as to help in the investigation of the
failure of reservoir system. Land use change can also adversely affect the
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
accuracy of the inflows’ estimates as well. In addition, estimation of loss of
water from the Mtera Reservoir was carried out. This was done because it was
anticipated that perhaps the amount of water lost through evaporation and
also to a certain extent due to

seepage and percolation is much higher than what was assumed at the design
stage. The developed simulation/operational model was tested with the
TALSIM

The Mtera Reservoir is the larger than Kidatu Reservoir with surface area of
620 km2 at full capacity. It is 8.5 m deep
ranging from 690.0 m above Mean Sea Level (MSL) to 698.5 m above MSL.
Corresponding values for the Kidatu Reservoir are a surface area of 9.5 km2 at
full capacity and a depth of 17 m ranging from 433 m above MSL to 450 m
above MSL.

The storage capacity of Mtera Reservoir is 125 million cubic metres. It is

roughly 25 times larger than the Kidatu Reservoir. The installed capacity at
Mtera is 80 MW of power
whereas at Kidatu it is 200 MW. There are 2 turbines at Mtera and 4 turbines
at Kidatu.

This information is summarised in Table 1.

PARAMETER KIDATU MTERA

Live storage 125 3200

Spillway capacity(m3/s) 6000 4000

Generating capacity 200 80

(MW)

Turbine discharge 140 96

capacity(m3/s)

Full storage level +450.0 +698.5

Minimum storage level +433.0 +690.0

 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

Catchment area(km2) 80,040 67,884

Table 1: Summary of Mtera-Kidatu Reservoir System’s Details

Three main rivers contribute to the Mtera Reservoir, namely; the Great Ruaha
River, the Little Ruaha River and the Kisigo River. The Great Ruaha River at
Msembe Ferry (1ka59) provides about 56% of the runoff into the reservoir. The
Little Ruaha River at Mawande (1ka31), which joins the Great Ruaha River
downstream of Msembe Ferry, provides an additional 18%, whilst the Kisigo
(i.e. 1ka42, joining it further downstream) is about 26 %

There are several tributaries between Mtera and Kidatu Reservoirs that also
contribute to the inflows at Kidatu. The ones considered in this paper are
flows from Mtera, Lukosi at Mtandika (1ka37a), Yovi (1ka38)
and of course the contribution of rainfall within this intervening catchment (i.e.
between Mtera and Kidatu).

TECHNIQUES OF INVESTIGATION

The methodology used to investigate the possible causes of the failure of the
Mtera-Kidatu Reservoir System are as follows:

(1) Sudden decrease in inflows.

(2) Sudden increase in losses.

(3) Sudden increase in generated power.

(4) Unnecessary spill.

Any one or a combination of these reasons could or must be the cause of

failure of the Mtera Reservoir to recover to full conditions in 1991 and in 1992.
The failure of the reservoir in 1994 is, in fact, caused by the phenomenon that
started in 1991 and persisted through 1992. If the reservoir had gone to the
full capacity or nearly full conditions in 1991 and in 1992 then the reservoir
would not have failed in 1994. Therefore, the focus of this investigation was on
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
1991 and on 1992 rather than on 1994 and 1997 when the reservoir levels
actually were the lowest. Inflows

Three main rivers - the Great Ruaha, the Little Ruaha and the Kisigo -
contribute inflows into the Mtera

Reservoir. These rivers are gauged some distance away from the rim of the
reservoir. As a result, one cannot directly calculate inflows into Mtera
Reservoir without modelling these inflows into the reservoir.

Hence, these inflows must be estimated using mathematical/hydrological

models of flow routing. Again, there is no gauging at the rim of the Kidatu
Reservoir and similar approach is needed for inflow estimates there. The
gauging stations were destroyed after the impoundment of the river for the
hydropower generation.

A number of mathematical/hydrological models were tried and tested on daily

basis. All of them were found

The models are Simple Linear Model (SLM), Linear Perturbation Model (LPM)
and Linear Varying Gain

Factor Model (LVGFM). These models were used to relate the flow at Mtera
(1ka5) with the flows from
1ka31, 1ka42 and 1ka59, and to relate the flow at Kidatu (1ka3) with the flows
from 1ka37a, 1ka38 and the average rainfall within the intervening catchment.
The SLM is a multiple regression model where the dependent variable is the
runoff at the outlet of the catchment/basin and the independent variables are
rainfall and/or upstream flow values. The LPM is a modification of the SLM
where seasonal variations in the variables are accounted for in the regression
equation, and the LVGFM is a further extension of the regression equation,
where non-linearity due to high intensity of rainfall is accounted for. The
mathematical details of these models are presented in Appendix 1.

Since Mtera Reservoir was impounded in 1980, the model was calibrated for
pre-impoundment period of 1957 to 1975. The data of 19 years was used for
the calibration of the model and the remaining 4 years, 1976 to 1979, was used
for the verification of the model. All the three models registered an efficiency
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
(R2) of above 90% during calibration, with LVGFM having the highest efficiency
of 94.26% and LPM the least of 90.35%. The results are presented in Table 2.
The same order of efficiency was observed during verification with LVGFM
having an efficiency of 73.53% while LPM had an efficiency of 69.85%. SLM was
used for further investigations of the system’ failure because it had the best
estimate of flow volume compared to LPM and LVGFM. It is also the simplest
among the three models and the results are not vastly different from the
others. River flow data at Kidatu (1ka3) was consistently available from 1954
to 1975; prior to impoundment of the reservoir. Scanty discharge data after
impoundment of the reservoir was also available for the period 1982 to 1985.
Observed flow at three flow stations; 1ka5, 1ka37a and 1ka38 were combined
with the average rainfall
over the intervening catchment to estimate flow at the Kidatu gauging station.
Similarly, the three models (SLM, LPM and LVGFM) were calibrated over a
period of 12 years from 1958 to 1969. Model verification was done from 1970
to 1975 (6 years). Good model efficiencies were obtained, with all models
registering an average R² of about 91% during calibration and 89% during
verification period Losses

It had been mentioned that perhaps the amount of water lost through
evaporation is much higher than what was assumed at the design stage, hence
causing the failure of the reservoir system.

Main losses that occur in a reservoir are due to evaporation followed by losses
due to seepage or ground water percolation and direct pumping (but there is
no evidence of direct pumping from the Mtera Reservoir).

It is hardly likely that losses due to percolation increased suddenly at the end
of 1990, i.e., after the reservoir has been in operation for nearly seven years. It
is also very unlikely that losses due to evaporation increased suddenly at the
end of 1990. But for the completeness of investigation, annual and expected
seasonal losses due to evaporation, using the Morton model, are compared
with the combined losses due to evaporation and percolation calculated by the
water balance of the reservoir.

It is assumed that the losses due to percolation and seepage are small
compared to the losses due to evaporation. As a result, it is expected that the
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
losses calculated by water balance should be comparable in magnitude to the
evaporation losses estimated by the mathematical model (i.e. Morton model).

Hydropower generation

It is well known that there was no increase in the generation of hydropower in

1991 and 1992.

In fact, the opposite is true. There was rather an acute shortage of power in
the early 1990s in Tanzania.

However, for the sake of completeness, a comparison is made between the

turbine discharge from Mtera and Kidatu in 1991 and 1992 with releases made
in previous years.

Prior to 1988, hydropower was only generated at Kidatu. In 1988, an additional

turbine was installed at Mtera to increase the generating capacity of the
reservoir system, but it is unlikely to be the cause of persistent low water
levels in the Mtera Reservoir in the early 1990s. Power is mainly generated at
Kidatu but water is stored at Mtera. Although, Kidatu is a much smaller
reservoir, its function is, largely, to maintain sufficient head for power
generation. Prior to installation of a turbine at Mtera water was spilled from
Mtera to feed Kidatu. After the installation of the turbine all the water that
was necessary to be released is not spilled but a part of it is passed through the
turbine. The amount of water that passes through the turbine at Mtera would
have been spilled anyway to feed the Kidatu Reservoir. Therefore, installation
of a turbine at Mtera Reservoir is not likely to have any adverse effect on
decrease in water levels at Mtera.

Unnecessary Spill

If the amount of water that was spilled from Mtera was more than what was
necessary to feed the Kidatu Reservoir then it could have been the cause of
low water levels in 1991 and 1992. Investigation of this possible cause was
carried out in two different ways. The first course of investigation relied on
searching for clues from the records of spill from the Mtera and the Kidatu
Reservoirs, comparing the total outflow from
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
the Mtera and from the Kidatu and by comparing the observed losses from the
Mtera Reservoir with losses estimated from the reservoirs using mathematical
models.

The second course of investigation relied on simulation of water levels in the

Mtera Reservoir from the very start of the operation of the reservoir.

GREAT RUAHA POWER PROJECT

 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
In 1968 proposals to build the first large hydroelectric power station in
Tanzania were accepted by the Tanzania Government and agreement to
finance the project was reached among the Government, the World Bank, and
the Swedish International Development Authority. This development was at
Kidatu on the Great Ruaha River, which was the implementation of the three
phases Great Ruaha Power Project (GRPP).

Construction of the first phase started in 1969. This involved a 40m high, rock-
fill dam; an underground power station large enough to accommodated four
50MW machines; about 350km of high – voltage transmission line from Kidatu
to Dar es Salaam; and the installation of two generating units to supply
100MW to the grid system. Phase 1 of this project was commissioned in mid-
1975 and inaugurated by President J.K Nyerere in the same year.

Phase II development of the Great Ruaha Power Project started in 1977 and
involved the construction of a 45 m concrete dam at Mtera, 170km upstream
from Kidatu, installation of the two remaining 50MW generating units at
Kidatu power station; and the relocation of the Iringa/Dodoma road to pass
over the Mtera dam. These works were completed in early 1981.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

Kidatu/Dar es salaam, Hale/Moshi and Kidatu - Iringa Mufindi transmission

lines

Associated with the Kidatu development was the construction of 350 km of

high voltage transmission line from Kidatu to Dar es Salaam to connect the
power station to the coastal grid. The line was financed by the Canadian and
Tanzania Governments and was commissioned in 1975.

In order to connect the northern towns of Arusha and Moshi to the coastal grid
system, a transmission line from Hale power station to the Kiyungi substation
at Moshi was commissioned in 1975. This was also financed by the Canadian
and Tanzania Governments.

In 1979 work commenced on the second major transmission line from the
Kidatu power station. This line, to be commissioned in 1983, runs westward to
Iringa & then to the Mufindi pulp and paper mill. It was planned to extend the
line from Mufindi to Mbeya by 1984.

In 1976, through the Canadian International Development Agency, TANESCO

Commissioned Acres International Limited of Canada as consulting engineers
to develop a master plan for the development of the electricity supply system
for the next 30 years or so. The plan will be periodically reviewed to ensure
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
that it remains compatible with actual system growth, with revised load
forecasts, and with changing economic circumstances.

The installed capacity of the hydroelectric power station at Kidatu was doubled
in 1980 and its capability was augmented by the construction of the storage
dam and reservoir at Mtera, opened by President J.K Nyerere in February
1981.

In addition to building large hydropower stations to serve the transmission grid

system, TANESCO has to continue upgrading its diesel-powered units at
isolated centers. In 1983 new diesel power stations at Mbeya, Dodoma and
Tabora were commissioned. Six diesel sets were delivered in 1981 for
installation at other existing stations, either to augment the installed capacity
or to replace worn-out units.

In 1992, the government of Tanzania established the Parastatal Sector Reform

Commission (PSRC) whose main responsibilities were to ensure smooth
privatization of the public corporations with the aim of enhancing their
efficiency. Since then the government has removed TANESCO’s monopoly as
the sole power generating and distributing company.

TANESCO established a business planning process in 1996 and the first

corporate business plan was out in 1997.

The main objective of the Corporate Plan was to collectively assess and
manage risks in aspiring to achieve organisational long-term goals. It helps
management to assess the company’s capacity to survive shocks, to adapt to
sudden change, and to capture new opportunities.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

● Layout of the station

Kidatu is an underground power station with four vertical Francis units of 50

MW each and designed for a total discharge of about 140m3 per second. The
power plant utilizes a maximum head of 175 m between the intake and the
tailrace. The intake reservoir has a live storage of 125 million m3
contained by a 40 m high earth and rock fill dam with a crest length of 350 m.
Three spillway sector gates have a total capacity of 6,000 m3/s. The headrace
tunnel is unlined with a length of 9.6 km. The tailrace tunnel has a length of
1.0km.

Fig. 3 displays the layout

 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
A vertical steel-lined penstock feeds each of the Francis stainless steel
turbines. Litostroy Lubjana made the two first units while Voith made the two
last units designed for about 35m3/second each. Rade Koncar in Zagreb, -
Yugoslavia manufactured the generators. Each unit has a total rotating mass of
about 180 tones. Rotating at a speed of 375 revolutions per minute.

Power from the generators is fed to the single-phase transformers located in

the powerhouse cavern via 10.5 kV polyethylene insulated cables. From the
main 220 kV transformers the power is led through an 85 m vertical cable shaft
to the pothead yard via 220kV oil immersed power cables. There are four 220
kV overhead lines connecting to the 220 kV switchyard

2.2 Kidatu key data

- Catchment’s area 80,000 km2

- River run-off (mean value) 191m3/s

- Discharge capacity 140 m3/s

- Turbine capacity 4x52.5 MW

- Generator capacity 4x80 MVA

- Annual generation 1.2 TWh

● Background and history of the project

In the early 70s TANZANIA ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY LIMITED (TANESCO)

embarked on implementation of the Great Ruaha Power Project (GRPP) which
was implemented in three phases. Completion of the project represented a
major hydroelectric development in Tanzania. The project was undertaken by
Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO), and the Swedish
Consulting Group (SWECO) provided consulting services for the project.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

Phase I (1970-1975)

Phase I of the project involved the construction of a 40m high and 350m long
earth rock fill dam and an underground power plant at Kidatu installed with
two generating units each with a capacity of 50MW totaling 100MW. The rock
fill dam located about 10km upstream of the underground power house
created a regulation reservoir for the plant with storage capacity of 125 million
m3 and unlined headrace intake tunnel of 9.6km long down to the power
station.

Phase II (1977-1981)

Phase II of the project consisted of additional installation of two 50MW units at

Kidatu Hydro Plant, thus bringing the ultimate capacity of the plant to 200MW.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
However, it was realized that the Kidatu Reservoir volume was too small for
annual regulation and for continuous operation of the four generating units. To
take care of the water availability during the dry season of normal years as well
as a series of dry years, adequate storage had to be provided upstream of
Kidatu. It was from this reason the idea to construct a main storage dam about
170km upstream of Kidatu at Mtera was conceived.

Kidatu Hydro Power Plant

Kidatu power plant was built in two phases under the name of Great Ruaha
Power Project that was carried out in 1970’s for phase one and 1980’s for
phase two. Phase I was completed in 1975 that comprised of construction of
an earth-rock fill dam, an initial capacity of 2 x 50MW, and 220kv transmission
line to Dar es Salaam via Morogoro. Phase II completed 1980 which involved
additional of 2 x 50MW, and construction of a bigger storage dam at Mtera
with capacity of 3,200 Mill m3.

The plant has undergone two major rehabilitation works. Rehabilitation phase I
covered repair turbine one and two, replacement of excitation equipment and
repair of a damaged generator unit one. The works were executed from 1993
to 1994. Estimate cost of the project was 25 Million SEK. Financiers were SIDA
and TANESCO. The rehabilitation commence from 1999 to 2003. Major works
were computerizing the control and protection system, repair on turbines,
replacement of runners on units 1and 2, generators and water ways. The
project was financed by SIDA, NORAD and TANESCO. Estimated cost was about
12 Million US$.

Energy Contribution
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
The power station generates an average of about 0.8 billion units yearly for the
past five years, however for the good hydrological year the station can
generate over 1 billion units.

Kidatu power plant contributes about 36% of the total hydro installed capacity.

Operation and Maintenance

Operation of generating units is controlled by a semi-automated computerized

system called interactive graphic supervisory system (IGSS32).

The new control system is divided into three main parts namely station control
unit, local control unit and data control and supervision system. The station
control unit controls the whole station while the local control units control the
individual plants like machines, dam and 220/33kV substation. All the local
control units are connected to the data control and supervision system
(SCADA) via station control unit. The unit control units are connected through
profibus. There is a provision of starting the machines from the local control
unit if the SCADA or station control unit fails. Also there is a provision of
remote start/stop of machines from the Ubungo grid control center.

Initially maintenance was carried out using the bar chart maintenance system
until the introduction of computerized maintenance management system
called Job Tech, supplied by nor consult Norway during the rehabilitation
phase II. The bar chart system was done manually, very slow, no proper
reliable records keeping and difficult in follow up. The Job Tech computerized
system helps to plan work tasks and resources utilization, ensures that no
planned work tasks are overlooked, builds up valuable maintenance
information and history, secure a cost effective operation of plant and obtain
optimal maintenance thus prevent unexpected breakdowns. However the
system has failed due to technical problem of the computer server. The
process to revive the system is in progress.

Future plans
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
Phase II rehabilitation project could not cover all necessary repairs of plant and
equipment therefore it is planned to have Phase III rehabilitation project. The
project that will cover the following:

Modification of the 220kV system because the substation is the major link of
interconnections e.g. Kihansi, Mtera, and new power stations to be built in a
near future.

Repair and refurbishment of auxiliary equipment’s.

Generator no.2 realignment of up-bracket.

Project cost and financing

Construction cost for phase I was about 102 Million US$ financed by
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Swedish
International Development Authority, the Canadian International Development
agency and the Government of Tanzania. Main contractors and Consultant the
supervision for project layout and kidatu dam and power station was done by
the Swedish Consulting Group (SWECO) Stockholm. Other contractors were as
follows:

● KIDATU CONTRACTORS
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

● STATUS BEFORE REHABILITATION

 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
The Kidatu Plant had been in operation for about 25 years without major
upgrading since it was commissioned in 1975.

The plant had deteriorated considerately with age in due course and its output
availability had dropped to about 175MW from the installed capacity of
200MW.

The rotary excitations system for all the units had to be replaced between
1991-1993 by new static excitation system as part of urgent repairs that were
conceived as Phase I of Kidatu Rehabilitation. A failure on excitation system of
unit 1 during that period had triggered the need for replacement of the old
rotary excitation system for all the four units.

A detailed feasibility study carried out by Norconsult International A/S in 1996

recommended major areas of improvement in order to increase overall
reliability of power in Tanzania and summed up the actions under
Rehabilitation of Kidatu Phase II. The feasibility study distinguished the
following main scope of works:

Turbine works

Runners

Cavitations damages on runners for unit 1 and 2 were found to be severe and
considerable repairs

Waterways

The steel lined waterways were also found to be in poor conditions and
reconditioning of the steel , with new protective layer of paint was necessary.
Corrosion had developed considerably and further corrosion could lead to
complete failure collapse and the steel lining.

It was recommended to carry out sandblasting and painting all the waterways
(mainly 185m high vertical shafts) with area approximated to 8,000m2 Turbine
leakages

Leakage through guide vane clearances in turbine 1 to 2 was found to be high

due to worn out sealing strips/on both bottom and top turbine covers. Similar
observations were later noted on turbines 3 and 4.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
Replacement of all the sealing strips with stainless facing plates was
recommended on both covers (top and bottom) for all four turbines.

Governors:

The governors for unit 1 and 2 were found to have deteriorated considerably.
They were no longer reliable in governing the units. Oil leakages on the
governor pressure system were severe and complete replacement of the
governors was recommended for units 1 and 2. Generators

Cooling

The capacity of all the four generators at Kidatu was found to be limited due to
heating problems

in the bearings. Oil temperatures ranged between 55-60oC whereas winding

temperatures rose up to above 80oC. Oil leakages and carbon particles

Oil leakages on the bearings were also found to be severe. (The leakage was
approximately 2 litres/day).

The old slip ring house also served as ventilation from the generator pit.
Carbon dust soaked in oil from the generator pit went out via the slip ring. The
combination of oil vapor/carbon dust negatively influenced the insulation of
the winding in the excitation system as well as the generator windings.

It was recommended to replace the bearings coolers (combined bearings)

modify and replace the slip ring house with completely new construction and
the generator also needed thorough cleaning of both the stator and rotor to
remove sticky carbon dust/oil layers.

Oil pumping efficiency The pumping efficiency on the bearings oil system was
studied further, and it was found necessary to modify the pump holes for
increased cooling efficiency.

Preliminary studies found the pumping holes on the bearing oil pumping
systems to have been rather oversized and recommended for reduction of the
same to improve oil-pumping efficiency.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
CHAPTER 2

ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE OF KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT

However, in general, a typical leadership flow chart for a hydropower plant or

any organization might include the following positions and reporting structure:

1.Board of Directors/Shareholders:

The highest level of leadership responsible for overseeing the operations and
strategic direction of the hydropower plant.

2. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Managing Director:

The top executive responsible for the overall management of the hydropower
plant and its day-to-day operations. They report directly to the Board of
Directors

3. Executive Team:

This may include positions such as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief
Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Engineer, and other relevant roles, depending on
the size and complexity of the organization. They report to the CEO and oversee
specific functional areas.

4. Department Heads/Managers:

These individuals are responsible for managing different departments within the
hydropower plant, such as Operations, Maintenance, Finance, Human
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
Resources, Environmental Compliance, and other relevant areas.

5. Supervisors/Team Leaders:

They oversee the day-to-day activities of specific teams or workgroups within

each department and report to the respective department heads.

6. Staff/Workers:

These are the employees who perform the operational tasks and maintenance
activities necessary for the functioning of the hydropower plant. They work
under the supervision of the team leaders and report any issues or concerns to
their immediate supervisors.

CONSIDER THE LEADERSHIP FLOW CHART AT KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT AS

SHOWN ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE BELOW;
REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

Fig;flow chart of kidatu leadership ranks

 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
CHAPTER 3

OPERATION STRUCTURE IN POWER HOUSE

The operation structure of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant power house involves
a complex system of components and processes that work together to
generate electricity from the power of water. In this explanation, we will
explore the various elements and their functions within the power house of
the Kidatu Hydropower Plant.

1. Water Intake and Forebay:

The operation of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant begins with the intake
structure, which is responsible for capturing water from the source, in this
case, the great Ruaha River. The intake structure consists of screens and trash
racks to prevent debris and large objects from entering the system.

The captured water then flows into the forebay, a reservoir-like structure that
acts as a storage area. The forebay helps regulate the flow of water into the
power house, ensuring a steady supply for power generation.

2. Penstock:

From the forebay, the water is directed into the penstock, a large pipe or
tunnel that carries the water to the turbines in the power house. The penstock
is designed to withstand high pressure and is often made of steel or reinforced
concrete.

The penstock is sized and engineered based on the desired flow rate, head,
and turbine capacity. It plays a critical role in maintaining the necessary
hydraulic pressure for efficient turbine operation.

3. Francis Turbines:

Within the power house, the water from the penstock is directed to the Francis
turbines. The Kidatu Hydropower Plant utilizes Francis turbines, which are
reaction turbines designed for medium to high head applications.
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The Francis turbines consist of a runner with curved blades and a spiral-shaped
casing. Water enters the turbine through the guide vanes and flows onto the
runner blades. The kinetic energy of the water is converted into mechanical
energy, causing the runner to rotate.

The rotation of the runner is transferred to a generator through a shaft, which

converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy. The Kidatu Hydropower
Plant likely has multiple Francis turbines to maximize power generation
capacity.

4. Generator:

The generator is a crucial component of the power house, as it converts the

mechanical energy from the rotating turbines into electrical energy. The
generator typically consists of a rotor and a stator.
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The rotating shaft of the turbine is connected to the rotor of the generator,
which contains a set of electromagnets. As the rotor spins, the electromagnets
create a rotating magnetic field.

The stator, surrounding the rotor, contains a set of stationary coils. The
rotating magnetic field induces an electric current in the coils, generating
electricity. The electricity produced by the generator is then sent to the
transmission system for distribution to consumers.

5. Transformer and Switchyard:

Before the electricity can be transmitted to the grid, it needs to be stepped up

in voltage for efficient transmission. This is achieved using transformers. The
transformers increase the voltage of the electricity generated by the generator
to a level suitable for transmission.

The power house is also equipped with a switchyard, which acts as a

distribution point for the electricity. The switchyard contains various electrical
equipment, such as circuit breakers, switches, and transformers, to regulate
and control the flow of electricity.

6. Control Room and Monitoring Systems:

The power house includes a control room where operators monitor and
control the operation of the turbines, generators, and other equipment. The
control room is equipped with advanced monitoring and control systems that
provide real-time data on various parameters, such as water flow rate, turbine
speed, generator output, and system stability.

Operators use this information to optimize the performance of the power

house, ensuring efficient power generation and grid stability. They can make
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
adjustments to turbine settings, monitor equipment health, and respond to
any alarms or abnormal conditions.

7. Maintenance and Safety Systems:

The power house requires regular maintenance to ensure its reliable

operation. Maintenance activities include inspections, lubrication, cleaning,
Control and Protection Systems

Many defects were noted on the plant control system. Some of the
electromechanical relays were malfunctioning, presenting an operation risk on
the reliability of the system. Lack of spare parts for the components that had
been in operation of over 25 years was also distinguished as a major risk

Consequently, it was concluded to carry out a complete replacement of the

conventional technology based control and protection system to an almost
100% Computerized Control System.

Other areas

The feasibility study also looked at other areas of the plant and recommended
improvement actions.

Plant Output

The need to optimize plant out put was dwelt into details. However, with
several dynamic factors that influence total efficiency factor, it was found to
be very difficult for operators to select optimum setting for individual units and
the plant as a whole. It was proposed as an alternative to introduce RANAID
software alongside the computerized control system as a means to optimize
out put from the units.

Maintenance Management System

General ageing of the plant through deterioration of equipment and

components require improved maintenance through the years to sustain
reliability. Introduction of computerized Maintenance Management System
(MMS) was recommended and implemented.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
Environmental Improvement

- The general outlook of the power plant needed to be face lifted. The ambient
temperature in the cavern was not comfortable (about 30oC). Noise level was
found to relatively high while insufficient illumination and dirtiness were also
sighted as problems. The working environment required considerable
improvement
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
CHAPTER 4

COMPONENTS OF KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT

Kidatu Hydropower Plant is located on the Great Ruaha River in Tanzania.

general information about the components typically found at kidatu
hydropower plant are as follows:-

1.Dam:

The hydropower plant usually includes a dam to create a reservoir or

impoundment. In the case of Kidatu, there is a large dam called the Kidatu
Dam that forms the reservoir.

2. Reservoir:
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The reservoir is a large body of water created by the dam. It stores water that
can be released as needed to generate electricity.

3. Intake Structure:

The intake structure is located near the dam and controls the flow of water
into the power plant.

4. Penstock:

The penstock is a large pipe or conduit that carries water from the intake
structure to the turbine.

5. Turbine:

The turbine is a mechanical device that converts the energy of flowing water
into mechanical energy. It is connected to a generator.

6. Generator:

The generator is responsible for converting the mechanical energy from the
turbine into electrical energy.
REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
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7. Powerhouse:

The powerhouse is the building or structure that houses the turbines,

generators, and other equipment necessary for electricity generation.

8. Transformers:

Transformers are used to step up the voltage of the electricity generated

before it is transmitted over long distances.

9. Transmission Lines:

The electricity generated at the hydropower plant is transmitted through a

network of high-voltage transmission lines to deliver power to consumers.

10. Control Room:

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The control room is the central hub where operators monitor and control the
various components of the hydropower plant, ensuring its safe and efficient
operation.

11. Environmental Mitigation Systems: Hydropower plants often include

various environmental mitigation measures to minimize their impact on the
surrounding ecosystem, such as fish ladders or fish-friendly turbine designs to
facilitate fish migration.

SWITCH YARD

: A switchyard, also known as a substation, is an essential component of an

electrical power system. Its primary function is to facilitate the transmission
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
and distribution of electricity efficiently and safely. The three main functions of
a switchyard are:

1.Power Transformation:

One of the primary functions of a switchyard is to transform electrical power

from one voltage level to another. Power generated at a power plant is
typically at a high voltage, which is unsuitable for long-distance transmission
and distribution.

The switchyard contains power transformers that step up or step down the
voltage to the desired level, depending on the requirements of the
transmission and distribution network.

These transformers ensure that electrical power can be transmitted efficiently

over long distances and then distributed to consumers at lower voltages.

2. Switching and Protection:

Another crucial function of a switchyard is to provide switching and protection

mechanisms for the electrical network. The switchyard includes various types
of switches, such as circuit breakers, isolators, and disconnectors, which allow
the operators to control the flow of electricity. These switches enable the
connection or disconnection of different parts of the electrical network for
maintenance, repairs, or reconfiguration.

Additionally, the switchyard incorporates protective relays and equipment

that detect faults or abnormal conditions in the network, such as overloads or
short circuits. When a fault is detected, the protection system operates the
circuit breakers to isolate the faulty section and ensure the safety and
reliability of the overall system.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
3. Voltage Regulation and Control:

The switchyard also plays a vital role in voltage regulation and control within
the power system. Voltage levels need to be maintained within certain limits
to ensure the proper functioning of electrical equipment and the stability of
the network.

The switchyard includes devices such as voltage regulators, capacitors, and

reactors that help regulate and control the voltage levels. These devices
compensate for voltage fluctuations, reactive power imbalances, and other
issues that may arise during power transmission and distribution.

By maintaining stable voltage levels, the switchyard ensures that the

electricity supplied to consumers meets the required standards and minimizes
the risk of equipment damage or power quality problems.

These three functions—power transformation, switching and protection, and

voltage regulation and control—are crucial for the efficient and reliable
operation of a switchyard and the overall electrical power system.

These are some of the common components found in a hydropower plant, but
the specific design and features can vary depending on the size, capacity, and
location of the plant. For accurate and detailed information about the
components of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant, I recommend referring to official
sources, documents, or contacting the relevant authorities or project
developers associated with the plant.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
CHAPTER 5

CONTRIBUTION OF KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT TO THE NATIONAL GDP

The Kidatu Hydropower Plant in Tanzania has made significant contributions

to the country's national GDP since its establishment. This hydroelectric power
station, located on the great Ruaha River, has played a vital role in supporting
economic growth, industrial development, and improved living standards. In
this explanation, we will delve into the various ways in which the Kidatu
Hydropower Plant has contributed to Tanzania's GDP.

1. Electricity Generation and Supply

One of the most significant contributions of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant to

the national GDP is its role in electricity generation and supply. As a large-scale
hydroelectric power station, Kidatu has a considerable capacity to produce
electricity, which is supplied to households, businesses, industries, and public
infrastructure across Tanzania.

The availability of reliable and affordable electricity is essential for economic

development. It enables industrial production, supports commercial activities,
and enhances the quality of life for individuals. The electricity generated by
Kidatu Hydropower Plant has powered various sectors of the economy,
including manufacturing, agriculture, services, and mining, thereby
contributing to their productivity and growth.

By providing a stable and sufficient power supply, Kidatu has facilitated

increased productivity in industries, leading to higher output levels and
improved competitiveness. This, in turn, has contributed to the expansion of
the industrial sector and the overall GDP growth.

2. Industrial Development

The presence of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant has had a positive impact on
industrial development in Tanzania. Reliable and cost-effective electricity
supply is a crucial factor for attracting investment and promoting
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
industrialization. Industries require a stable power supply to operate
machinery, run production processes, and meet the energy demands of their
operations.

With the availability of electricity from Kidatu, industries in Tanzania have been
able to expand their operations, increase production capacities, and improve
efficiency. Various sectors, such as manufacturing, food processing, textiles,
and mining, have benefited from the reliable power supply, enabling them to
scale up production and enhance their contribution to the national GDP.

Moreover, the presence of Kidatu Hydropower Plant has attracted foreign

direct investment in industries that require a substantial amount of electricity,
such as large-scale manufacturing and mining. This investment inflow has
created job opportunities, generated tax revenues, and contributed to overall
economic growth and development.

3. Rural Electrification

The Kidatu Hydropower Plant has also played a crucial role in rural
electrification efforts in Tanzania. Access to electricity in rural areas has
numerous benefits, including improved education, healthcare, and agricultural
productivity. It enables the establishment of small businesses, the use of
modern farming techniques, and the provision of essential services in remote
areas.

By supplying electricity to rural regions, Kidatu Hydropower Plant has

contributed to the reduction of the urban-rural development gap, leading to
more inclusive growth and development across the country. It has empowered
rural communities, enabled income-generating activities, and enhanced their
overall quality of life.

The expansion of electricity access in rural areas has opened up opportunities

for entrepreneurship and the development of small-scale industries. It has
facilitated the growth of agro-processing enterprises, cottage industries, and
rural businesses, which have contributed to employment generation and the
diversification of rural economies. These activities, driven by the availability of
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
electricity from Kidatu, have added to the rural GDP and, consequently, the
national GDP.

4. Revenue Generation and Foreign Exchange

The Kidatu Hydropower Plant, being a state-owned entity, generates revenue

through the sale of electricity. The income generated from electricity sales
contributes to the government's revenue stream, which can be used for
various developmental initiatives, such as infrastructure development,
education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation programs.

● Furthermore, Kidatu's electricity exports to neighboring countries can

generate foreign exchange earnings for Tanzania. If there is excess
electricity capacity available, it can be exported

1.Electricity Generation:

kidatu Hydropower plants generate about 0.8 billion units yearly for the past
five years, however for the good hydrological year the station can generate
over 1 billion units which is a substantial amount of electricity, which is crucial
for driving economic activities across various sectors. Industries, businesses,
and households rely on electricity to power their operations, leading to
increased productivity and economic growth. A reliable and sufficient
electricity supply stimulates economic development and attracts investment.

2.Industrial Development:

Near kidatu HPP there is a huge factory of sugar called Kilombero sugar
company,one factor influences allocation of the industry was presence of
Kidatu hydropower plant.Hydropower provides a cost-effective and
sustainable source of energy for industries. With reliable and affordable
electricity, industries can expand their operations, increase production
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
capacity, and create jobs. This leads to an overall boost in the GDP as industrial
output and employment opportunities increase.

3.Infrastructure Development:

The construction of hydropower plants requires significant investments, which

stimulates economic growth. It involves various activities such as engineering,
manufacturing, and labor, contributing to job creation and income generation.
Additionally, hydropower projects often require the development of
supporting infrastructure like transmission lines and road networks, further
driving economic activity and development.a substantial amount of electricity,
which is crucial for driving economic activities across various sectors.
Industries, businesses, and households rely on electricity to power their
operations, leading to increased productivity and economic growth. A reliable
and sufficient electricity supply stimulates economic development and attracts
investment.

4.Rural Electrification:

villages nearby Kidatu HPP benefits from the plants due to facilitation of rural
electrification by extending electricity access to remote areas. Access to
electricity in rural regions can lead to improved agricultural productivity, better
healthcare services, enhanced education opportunities, and the growth of
small-scale enterprises. These developments contribute to poverty reduction,
increased incomes, and overall economic development.

The contribution of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant to the national Gross

Domestic Product (GDP) of Tanzania can be significant, as hydropower plants
play a crucial role in providing electricity for various sectors of the economy.
However, the specific contribution may vary over time and depend on factors
such as the plant's capacity, efficiency, and overall electricity demand in the
country.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
Here are some ways in which the Kidatu Hydropower Plant, as a major
hydropower facility in Tanzania, could contribute to the national GDP:

1. Electricity Generation: The Kidatu Hydropower Plant generates a significant

amount of electricity, which contributes to the overall energy supply in
Tanzania. This reliable and affordable electricity supply supports industrial,
commercial, and residential sectors, enabling economic activities and
productivity across various industries.

2. Industrial Development: Access to electricity is essential for industrial

development. Industries rely on electricity for manufacturing processes,
machinery operation, and other production activities. The availability of
hydropower from the Kidatu plant can facilitate industrial growth, job creation,
and contribute to the GDP through increased production and export activities.

3. Agricultural Sector: Reliable electricity supply is crucial for modern

agricultural practices, including irrigation systems, processing facilities, and
storage capabilities. The Kidatu Hydropower Plant can contribute to the
agricultural sector's growth by providing electricity for irrigation, reducing
post-harvest losses, and supporting value-added processing activities, thereby
boosting agricultural productivity and contributing to the GDP.

4. Service Sector: The service sector, including businesses such as banking,

telecommunications, and hospitality, relies on a stable and affordable
electricity supply. The Kidatu plant's contribution to the electricity grid helps
sustain these service industries, enabling them to operate efficiently and
expand their services, thus positively impacting the national GDP.

5. Export Potential: Tanzania has the opportunity to export surplus electricity

generated by the Kidatu Hydropower Plant to neighboring countries through
regional power interconnections. Electricity exports can generate revenue and
contribute to the national GDP.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.

It's important to note that the specific contribution of the Kidatu Hydropower
Plant to the national GDP would require detailed analysis of the electricity
generation capacity, utilization rates, and the overall economic context of
Tanzania. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the
plant's contribution to the national GDP, it is advisable to consult official
reports, economic studies, or contact relevant government agencies or energy
authorities in Tanzania.
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
CHAPTER 6

TYPE OF TURBINE USED AT KIDATU HYDRO-POWER PLANT.

The Kidatu Hydropower Plant in Tanzania utilizes Francis turbines for its power
generation. Francis turbines are a common type of hydroelectric turbine widely
used in medium to high head applications. In this explanation, we will explore
the properties, maintenance requirements, advantages, and disadvantages of
Francis turbines in the context of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant.

Properties of Francis Turbines:

1. Design and Operation:

Francis turbines are reaction turbines, meaning they operate based on both
the impulse and reaction principles. They consist of a runner with curved
blades and a spiral-shaped casing. Water enters the turbine through the guide
vanes and flows onto the runner blades, where the kinetic energy is converted
into mechanical energy, turning the shaft connected to the generator.

2. High Efficiency:

Francis turbines are known for their high efficiency, especially in medium to
high head applications. The runner and guide vane design is optimized to
achieve maximum energy conversion, resulting in a high overall efficiency for
power generation. This efficiency is crucial for maximizing the electricity output
of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant.

3. Wide Operating Range:

Francis turbines offer a wide operating range, allowing them to adapt to

varying water flow rates and head conditions. This flexibility is beneficial for
the Kidatu Hydropower Plant, as it enables the turbines to efficiently generate
power under different flow and head conditions, optimizing the plant's
performance throughout the year.
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4. Controllable Blade Angles:

The blades of Francis turbines are adjustable, allowing for precise control of
the turbine's output. By adjusting the blade angles, the power generation can
be optimized according to the demand and variations in water flow. This
control capability is advantageous for managing fluctuations in electricity
demand and ensuring grid stability.

Maintenance of Francis Turbines:

1. Regular Inspections:

Francis turbines require regular inspections to identify any signs of wear,

damage, or corrosion. Components such as blades, shafts, and guide vanes
should be thoroughly examined to ensure they are in optimal condition.
Inspections may include visual inspections, non-destructive testing, and
measurement of critical parameters.

2. Lubrication and Cooling Systems:

Proper lubrication and cooling are essential for the smooth operation of
Francis turbines. Lubricants need to be regularly monitored and changed, and
cooling systems should be checked for efficiency. Maintaining the lubrication
and cooling systems ensures that the turbines operate within acceptable
temperature ranges and prolongs their lifespan.

3. Alignment and Balancing:

Accurate alignment of the turbine components and balancing of the rotor are
critical for efficient and reliable operation. Regular alignment checks should be
 REPORT ON KIDATU HYDROPOWER PLANT.
conducted to ensure that the rotating parts are properly aligned, minimizing
vibrations and reducing stress on the turbine components.

4. Cleaning and Debris Management:

The Kidatu Hydropower Plant is located on the Ruaha River, which may carry
debris and sediments. Regular cleaning of the intake structures, screens, and
trash racks is necessary to prevent clogging and damage to the turbine
components. Effective debris management systems should be in place to
minimize the risk of foreign object damage.

5. Monitoring and Control Systems:

The installation of advanced monitoring and control systems is crucial for early
detection of any abnormal operating conditions. Real-time monitoring of
parameters such as water flow rate, head, temperature, and vibration helps
identify potential issues and allows for timely maintenance interventions.

Prons of Francis Turbines:

1. High Efficiency:

Francis turbines are known for their high efficiency, resulting in maximum
energy conversion and electricity generation. This allows the Kidatu
Hydropower Plant to produce more electricity from the available water
resources, maximizing its power generation capacity.

2. Wide Operating Range:

The wide operating range of Francis turbines enables the Kidatu Hydropower
Plant to adapt to varying flow and head conditions, ensuring continuous power
generation even during seasonal fluctuations or changes in water availability.
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3. Controllable Output:

The adjustability of Francis turbine blade angles allows for precise control of
the power generation output. This flexibility is beneficial for matching the
electricity demand and grid requirements, as the turbine's output can be easily
adjusted to meet varying load demands.

4. Reliability:

Francis turbines have a proven track record of reliability and long-term

performance in hydropower applications. This reliability ensures consistent
and uninterrupted power generation, reducing downtime and optimizing the
overall efficiency of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant.

5. Durability: Francis turbines are designed to withstand the demanding

operating conditions of hydropower plants. The robust construction, materials
used, and proper maintenance contribute to the durability and longevity of the
turbines, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing
downtime for repairs.

Cons of Francis Turbines:

1. Sensitive to Sediment and Debris:

Francis turbines can be susceptible to damage caused by sediment and debris

carried by the water source. If not properly managed, sediment and debris can
lead to erosion, increased wear on turbine components, and reduced
efficiency. Regular cleaning and debris management measures are necessary to
mitigate these risks.
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2. Environmental Impact:

The construction of hydropower plants, including those utilizing Francis

turbines, can have environmental impacts. These include habitat alteration,
water flow changes, and potential impacts on fish migration. Proper
environmental impact assessments, mitigation measures, and fish passage
systems should be implemented to minimize negative effects.

3. Capital Intensive:

The initial investment required to design, construct, and commission a

hydropower plant with Francis turbines can be significant. The costs associated
with civil works, turbine procurement, and installation may pose financial
challenges, especially for countries with limited resources. Adequate financial
planning and investment strategies are essential to overcome these
challenges.

4. Dependency on Water Resources:

The efficient operation of Francis turbines depends on the availability and

reliability of water resources. Seasonal variations, droughts, or changes in
water availability can impact power generation. Adequate water resource
management, including reservoir management and flow control, is necessary
to mitigate these risks.

5. Limited Applicability:

Francis turbines are most suitable for medium to high head applications. Their
efficiency may be compromised in low head scenarios, limiting their
applicability in certain geographic locations. The suitability of Francis turbines
should be assessed based on the specific characteristics of the site and water
resources available.
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In conclusion, Francis turbines at the Kidatu Hydropower Plant offer several
advantages, including high efficiency, wide operating range, controllable
output, reliability, and durability. However, they also have drawbacks such as
sensitivity to sediment and debris, potential environmental impacts, capital
intensiveness, dependency on water resources, and limited applicability in
certain scenarios. Understanding these properties, maintenance requirements,
and pros and cons of Francis turbines is essential for effective operation and
management of the Kidatu Hydropower Plant.

CHAPTER 7

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

Conclusion;

The Kidatu Hydropower Plant has proven to be a significant asset to Tanzania,

making substantial contributions to the country's national GDP. Its role in
electricity generation and supply, industrial development, rural electrification,
revenue generation, and foreign exchange earnings has been pivotal in driving
economic growth and improving the quality of life for the population. The
reliable and affordable electricity provided by Kidatu has supported various
sectors of the economy, stimulated industrialization, created job opportunities,
and enhanced productivity.

Recommendations:

1. Capacity Expansion: Consider expanding the capacity of the Kidatu

Hydropower Plant to meet the increasing demand for electricity in Tanzania.
Conduct feasibility studies to identify the potential for additional turbines or
the construction of new power plants in the vicinity.
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2. Renewable Energy Integration: Explore opportunities for integrating
renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, alongside hydropower at
the Kidatu facility. This diversification can enhance the resilience and
sustainability of the power supply, reduce dependency on a single energy
source, and contribute to Tanzania's commitments to mitigate climate change.

3. Infrastructure Development: Invest in the development of transmission and

distribution infrastructure to improve the efficiency of electricity delivery.
Upgrading and expanding the grid network will facilitate the seamless
transmission of electricity across the country, reduce transmission losses, and
ensure reliable power supply to remote areas.

4. Support Industrialization: Continue to prioritize the provision of reliable and

affordable electricity to industrial zones and areas with high industrial
potential. This will attract investment, promote industrial development, and
create job opportunities, further stimulating economic growth and
diversification.

5. Rural Electrification Expansion: Accelerate efforts to expand rural

electrification programs, ensuring that electricity reaches remote areas.
Collaborate with government agencies, private entities, and development
partners to extend the power grid, establish mini-grids, or explore off-grid
solutions to bring electricity to underserved rural communities.

6. Environmental Sustainability: Prioritize environmental conservation and

sustainable practices in the operation and maintenance of the Kidatu
Hydropower Plant. Ensure proper management of water resources,
biodiversity protection, and mitigation of any potential adverse environmental
impacts.
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7. Community Engagement: Foster close collaboration with local communities
living in the vicinity of the hydropower plant. Involve them in decision-making
processes, offer employment and training opportunities, and implement
corporate social responsibility initiatives that address the specific needs of the
communities. This will help build positive relationships, ensure social
acceptance, and promote inclusive development.

8. Research and Innovation: Encourage research and development activities to

explore advanced technologies and innovative solutions in hydropower
generation, energy storage, and grid management. Investing in research will
enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the Kidatu Hydropower
Plant and contribute to Tanzania's energy transition goals.

By implementing these recommendations, the Kidatu Hydropower Plant can

continue to play a vital role in driving economic growth, supporting industrial
development, expanding access to electricity, and contributing to Tanzania's
national GDP. It will strengthen the energy sector, create opportunities for
sustainable development, and improve the overall well-being of the Tanzanian
population.