Feasibility Study of Mini Hydel Power Plant

Abstract

This research paper presents a practical implementation and analysis of a small-scale hydroelectric generation plant designed for an educational institution. The project utilizes rooftop rainwater harvesting, a vertical Kaplan turbine, and solar-assisted pumping to generate renewable energy. Detailed design parameters, turbine selection, prototype testing, annual energy output, and economic analysis are discussed. The model serves not only as a viable green energy solution but also as a demonstrative educational tool.

Introduction

This project develops a compact small-scale hydropower system that uses rooftop rainwater to generate renewable electricity for an academic institution, aiming to reduce reliance on grid power and support sustainability. It integrates civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering principles.

Literature Review:
Studies show that small hydropower is feasible in urban and rural settings, with advances in turbine optimization and hybrid renewable systems supporting its viability.

Methodology:

• Site chosen: college rooftop with sufficient rainwater collection.

• Measured water discharge: ~250 L/min; head height: 13 meters.

• Calculated theoretical power: ~425 W; actual output after efficiency losses: ~297 W.

• Turbine: vertical Kaplan type with 5 blades and specific dimensions.

• System components: intake, penstock, forebay, draft tube, generator.

• Prototype parts were 3D printed and tested onsite.

Classification:
According to Indian standards, the system is micro-hydro (<1 kW), suitable for low-head applications (<30 m head).

System Design:

• Intake and flow velocities calculated, with a 0.3 m/s limit at intake and 2.12 m/s flow in the penstock.

• Generator options include PMDC motor or bicycle dynamo with ~70% efficiency.

• Estimated annual energy output: 1085 kWh, assuming 10 hours daily use.

• Safety factors include 20% freeboard and pressure-rated pipes.

Results:
The prototype successfully demonstrated micro-hydro power generation with potential grid savings and educational value.

Economic Analysis:

• Total cost: approximately Rs. 11,500–12,000

• Annual operation and maintenance cost: Rs. 500–700

• Cost per unit of electricity over 5 years: Rs. 2.67/kWh

Conclusion

The implementation of a small hydroelectric power system within a college campus demonstrates both technical feasibility and cost-effectiveness. It aligns with sustainable development goals and offers a scalable model for educational and remote area applications.

References

[1] Adhau.S \"Economic Analysis and Application of Small Micro/Hydro Power Plants (2009) \"Environmental Impact Assessment for Small Hydropower Projects\" [2] Aliewuebdametew (2016) \"Environmental Impact Assessment for Small Hydropower Projects\" [3] Alvi N. et al. \"Performance of Tawa Hydroelectric Power Plant-A Case Study\" (2007) [4] Bower, J. Hamm C \"An Emieevaleation of Small-Scale Distributed Electricity Generation Technology (2003) [5] Hussein I. Raman, N \"Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia\" (2010) \"Environmental Impact Assessment for Small Hydropower Projects\" [6] Jha R. Krishna S. et al. \"Spatial Decision Support System for Assessing Micro, Mini and Small Hydel Potential\" (2004) [7] Ministry of New and Renewable Energy \"Environmental Impact Assessment for Small Hydropower Projects\" Standards/Manuals Guidelines for Small Hydro Development Version 2 (2011) [8] Oliver P. Of Derwent Hydro, \"The British Hydropower Association\" Guide to U.K. Mini Hydro Developments, (2005) [9] Steven Spicer (2014) Feasibility Study on Proposed Micro Hydro Electrical Power Plant [10] Thoradeniya B, et al. \"Social and Environmental Impacts of a Mini-Hydro Project on the Ma Oya Baste in Sri Lanka\" Published by Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, International Conference, Sri Lanka (2007)

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Abhishekh Lokare, Rohit Akhade, Nikhil Chavan, Rushikesh Pawar, Tejas Yadav, Zaid Patvekar, Prof. Hanmant Kumbhar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.