An application of extreme value theory to the management of a hydroelectric dam

Assessing the probability of very low or high water levels is an important issue in the management of hydroelectric dams. In the case of the Akosombo dam, very low and high water levels result in load shedding of electrical power and flooding in communities downstream respectively. In this paper, we...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:SpringerPlus 2016-01, Vol.5 (1), p.96-96, Article 96
Main Author: Minkah, Richard
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Humanities and Social Sciences
multidisciplinary
Science
Science (multidisciplinary)
Statistics
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Summary:Assessing the probability of very low or high water levels is an important issue in the management of hydroelectric dams. In the case of the Akosombo dam, very low and high water levels result in load shedding of electrical power and flooding in communities downstream respectively. In this paper, we use extreme value theory to estimate the probability and return period of very low water levels that can result in load shedding or a complete shutdown of the dam’s operations. In addition, we assess the probability and return period of high water levels near the height of the dam and beyond. This provides a framework for a possible extension of the dam to sustain the generation of electrical power and reduce the frequency of spillage that causes flooding in communities downstream. The results show that an extension of the dam can reduce the probability and prolong the return period of a flood. In addition, we found a negligible probability of a complete shutdown of the dam due to inadequate water level.
ISSN:2193-1801
2193-1801
DOI:10.1186/s40064-016-1719-2