Potential for small hydropower development on the Pumpum River of Ghana using Remote Sensing and Soil Water Assessment Tool

Abstract

This study focused on identifying potential locations for the implementation of Small Hydropower Systems to enhance the existing energy infrastructure in the Pumpum River Basin (PRB). Utilizing remote sensing and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool, basin parameters were generated and simulated for hydropower analysis. The energy potential of suitable sites was assessed through flow duration curves and power duration curves. The findings reveal that the PRB exhibits potential for small hydropower development, identifying nine sites along the river. The results of the model indicate power capacities of 1,521 kW for the Run of River and 2,290 kW for the dam sites respectively. The most promising hydropower sites were identified as dam site 1, river of run site 1, and dam site 6 with corresponding firm power of 2356.2 kW, 1567 kW and 264 kW, resulting in estimated firm energy production of 12.07 GWh, 8.03 GWh, and 1.35 GWh, respectively. Considering the suitable spacing of more than between 12 km among dam site 1, river of run site 1, and dam site 6 and a combined annual energy production of 21.65 GWh, a recommended approach involves establishing a cascade hydropower arrangement at sites dam site 1, river of run site 1, and dam site 6 along the Pumpum River. With a plant capacity of 65% to 90% dependability range, incorporating an installed Francis turbine, the total annual firm energy that can be produced from the nine (9) (Run of river and dam) projected sites ranges between 0.69 and 12.07 GWh.