Operation of hydro power plants-a review

• Published in: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews 2017-03, Vol.69, p.610-619
• Main Authors: Singh, Vineet Kumar, Singal, S.K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy; Penstock; Renewable energy; Small hydropower
• ISSN: 1364-0321; 1879-0690
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2016.11.169

Energy is one of the major factors contributing in the development of a country. There are various sources of energy throughout the world, renewable as well as non-renewable. Renewable energy sources are considered more environmental friendly. Among all the sources of renewable energy, hydro power is considered most advantageous source of energy. Hydro power has negligible social and environment impact as compared to other forms of renewable energy. Proper operation of hydropower plant is very important for generating maximum energy by utilizing the available potential. The present study has been undertaken for review on the operational aspects of hydro power plants contributing in energy generation with minimum operational cost as well as the minimum environment effect. All the components and parameters contributing in operation of hydro power plant have been discussed, with respect to minimization of operational cost and maximizing generation. The mathematical models developed earlier for operation of hydro power and techniques to minimize the operation cost as well as maximization of energy generation of hydro power plant have also been presented for the benefit of the researchers. It has been found that earlier studies mainly focused on operation of reservoir based hydropower plants and further studies are required for optimum operation of run of river small hydropower plants.