Kick-off Meeting

Conducting a Pre-Feasibility Study – the first step to develop

Small Hydropower projects
Bishkek, 18 July 2024

Electrical & Mechanical equipment for small hydropower plants –

best international practices

Giorgi Gagnidze,
Electrical & Mechanical Engineer, SECCA
Small Hydropower Plants: A Comprehensive Overview

Small hydropower plants are a crucial source of

renewable energy. Technological advancements are
transforming these facilities, while new challenges are
emerging. This presentation will delve into the world of
small hydropower plants, exploring their electrical and
mechanical components, best international practices,
and the advantages and challenges of implementing
these practices. Also, This presentation will describe the
role of electromechanical equipment's in the hydropower
plants, the latest innovations in hydropower units, the
evolving landscape of efficiency and reliability, and the
crucial considerations of environmental sustainability.
Principles of hydroelectric power plant operation

Ø Water from a natural water body like a river is stored in the reservoir. This

reservoir is built at a level higher than the Powerhouse.

Ø Water from the reservoir flows through the penstock to the powerhouse and

the potential energy of water stored in the dam is converted into kinetic energy.

Ø In the powerhouse the hydraulic turbine converts the energy of flowing water

into mechanical energy, and a hydroelectric generator converts this mechanical

energy into electricity. The electricity produced is then transmitted to the

power grid.

Ø The main elements of a hydroelectric power plant include Water Turbines,

Generators, Switchgears, Excitation system, Control&Protection system, HPU

(Hydraulic pressure unit), Lubrication System, Cooling System and MIV (Main

Inlet Valve).
Hydromechanical Equipment's and Main Structures

Ø Intake
The intake structure collects water from the river, filtering out debris
and directing it towards the penstock for optimal performance.

Ø Penstock
The penstock is a pipe that carries water from the intake to the
turbine, ensuring efficient water flow and minimal energy loss.

Ø Powerhouse
Powerhouse is a building provided to protect the hydraulic and
electrical equipment.

Ø Outlet
The outlet structure releases water back into the river after it has
passed through the turbine, minimizing environmental impact and
maintaining river flow.
Role of Electromechanical Devices
Ø Turbines
Hydro turbines are devices used in hydroelectric generation plants that
transfer the energy from moving water to a rotating shaft to generate
electricity. These turbines rotate or spin as a response to water being
introduced to their blades.

Ø Generators
Synchronous machines use electromagnetic induction to convert
mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Ø Transformers
These devices step up the voltage level of the generated electricity for
efficient transmission.

Ø Switchgear
These electrical components control the flow of electricity and protect the
system from faults

Ø Control System
The control system monitors and regulates the plant's operation,
ensuring optimal performance and safety, often utilizing advanced
automation technology.
Hydropower Units: Technological Advancements

Ø Turbine Efficiency
Advances in turbine design, such as the use of variable-speed turbines, have
significantly increased efficiency, maximizing energy generation.

Ø Digital Control Systems

Advanced control systems, equipped with AI and machine learning, optimize
plant performance, enhance reliability, and reduce downtime.

Ø Automated Operations
Increased automation streamlines operations, minimizing human intervention
and improving overall efficiency and safety

Ø Remote Monitoring
Real-time data monitoring from remote locations allows for proactive
maintenance and ensures the optimal performance of hydropower units.
 Turbine Design and Operation

Common Types of Turbines Design Considerations Operating Principles

• Francis turbines Turbine design is crucial to Turbines operate by converting
optimize efficiency and reliability, the potential energy of the water
• Kaplan turbines
considering factors like water flow, into mechanical energy, through
• Pelton turbines a combination of pressure and
head, and power output.
• Ossberger turbines velocity changes.
• Turgo turbines
• Bulb turbines
Innovative Hydro Turbines: StreamDiver Turbines

The StreamDiver is a turbine eco-friendly turbines where

simplicity is the key principle. It runs completely submerged,
the housing is flooded, and the bearings lubricated with water.
There is no risk for oil spills and no complex seals are needed.
The direct-driven permanent magnet generator makes a
gearbox redundant of efficiency and reliability, and the crucial
considerations of environmental sustainability. All of the
above provides an opportunity to reduce civil costs with an
innovative layout of plants.
Generator Systems and Synchronization

Generator Design
Generators are typically synchronous machines, producing
alternating current (AC) electricity.

Synchronization
The generator's output must be synchronized with the power grid
to ensure stability and proper power flow.

Voltage Regulation
Generators have control systems to regulate voltage output,
maintaining a consistent supply.
Transformer and Switchgear Components

Component Function

Transformers Step up voltage for transmission

Circuit Breakers Protect the system from faults by

interrupting the flow of electricity

Relays/Protection devices Monitor electrical parameters and

activate trip command to Circuit
breakers

Insulators Prevent electrical current from

flowing to ground
Monitoring and Control Systems

Data Acquisition Control Systems

Sensors gather data on various Control systems use data from
parameters, including water flow, sensors to adjust turbine
turbine speed, voltage, and operation, voltage regulation, and
current. protection mechanisms.

Remote Monitoring
Modern hydroelectric plants often use remote monitoring systems for
real-time oversight and remote-control capabilities
Best International Practices: Electrical Equipment

1 Efficiency
Optimizing energy conversion efficiency through
advanced generator design, efficient power
transmission, and minimal energy loss in the system.

2 .
Reliability
Ensuring reliable operation with robust electrical
components, redundant systems, and regular
maintenance to minimize downtime.

3 Safety
Prioritizing safety with proper grounding, insulation,
and protective devices to prevent electrical hazards
and ensure worker safety

4 Environmental Impact
Minimizing environmental impact by using sustainable
materials, reducing electromagnetic interference, and
adhering to environmental regulations.
.
Best International Practices: Mechanical Equipment

1 Turbine Selection
Choosing the most efficient turbine type based on
flow, head, and environmental factors.
.
2 Penstock Design
Optimizing penstock diameter and material to
minimize friction losses and maximize water flow.

3 Intake and Outlet

Designing intake and outlet structures that minimize
environmental impact and maintain river flow.

4 Maintenance
Implementing regular maintenance schedules to ensure
optimal performance, identify potential issues, and
extend equipment lifespan.
.
.
Advantages of Adopting Best Practices
1 Increased Efficiency
Best practices optimize energy conversion and
transmission, maximizing energy output and
reducing energy waste.

2 Reduced Operational Costs

Efficient equipment and minimal downtime
contribute to lower operating costs, increasing
the plant's profitability.

3 Improved Reliability
Robust equipment, regular maintenance, and
redundancy lead to reliable operation, ensuring
consistent energy generation.

4 Minimal Environmental Impact

Best practices minimize environmental impact
through sustainable design, efficient operation,
and adherence to environmental regulations.
Challenges in Implementing Best Practices

Cost
Implementing best practices may require significant upfront investment in
advanced equipment and technologies.

Technical Expertise
Specialized skills are needed to design, install, and maintain equipment
according to best practices, requiring qualified personnel.

Regulation
Navigating complex regulations and obtaining permits can be time-consuming
and challenging, requiring extensive planning and documentation.
Improving Efficiency and Reliability

1 Predictive Maintenance
Data analytics and machine learning predict
potential issues before they occur, minimizing
downtime and ensuring a consistent energy supply.
2 Advanced Monitoring Systems
Comprehensive monitoring systems track key
performance indicators, providing insights into
plant health and optimizing operations.

3 Adaptive Control Strategies

Intelligent control systems adjust to varying water
flow conditions, maximizing energy generation and
ensuring optimal plant performance.

4 Redundant Systems
Backup systems and fail-safe mechanisms ensure
uninterrupted power generation, even during
unforeseen events or maintenance activities.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Sustainability
Small hydropower plants are a sustainable and environmentally
friendly source of renewable energy.

Efficiency
Adopting best practices maximizes energy efficiency, reducing
energy waste and minimizing environmental impact.

Global Impact
Best practices are essential for maximizing the benefits and
minimizing the risks of small hydropower plants worldwide.