The increase in prices of fossil energy sources and their impact on the environment due to green gas emissions has made hydropower more and more an important and attractive energy source.

Opposite to the disadvantages given by the implementation of big hydroplants, the proper design of small hydro powerplants can be an environmental friendly solution and represents a useful alternative renewable energy source, especially for rural areas without developed electricity grids. Thus, small hydropower is specially featured for implementation in countries in transition and emerging countries.

The aim of the course on 'Small Hydropower Development - From planning to design' is to provide theoretical understanding and practical insights to planning and designing of small hydropower plants.

Learning objectives

On completion of this course the participants will be able to:

address the various stages of a small hydropower project cycle, from site location, to design, to cost analysis;
analyze and create the preliminary design of a small hydropower scheme;
evaluate the impact of small hydropower plants on the environment and society.

Target group

The course is designed for scientists, engineers and water managers involved in hydropower development and water resources management, or interested in these topics. A prerequisite is basic knowledge of hydrology and hydraulics.

Course content

Introduction and planning (project stages)
Site selection (GIS tools, geology, energy demand and hydropower potential assessment)
Hydrology for Hydropower (flow duration curves, statistical hydrology, new data sources for data scarce areas)
SHPP design (civil, hydraulic and mechanical components)
Costs analysis, financing and permit processing
Environmental and societal impact assessment
Case studies analysis

Learning methods are:

use of state of the art literature combined with field experience from international professionals and academics;
lectures;
individual exercises;
group exercises;
case study analysis.