ASSESSMENT OF DABENA MINI HYDRO POWER PLANT AT DABENA RIVER

The number of electricity users is increasing with the increase of fuel cost and environmental pollution. The mini hydro power has grown as an alternative energy source that can be easily constructed with the minimal environmental impact. This research access the mini hydro power plant implemented on Dabena River 50 years ago by German missionaries. But it is not functioning these days. The available Gross head of the river measured using a GPS receiver and was found to be 11.5m. It has a potential for producing 150 KW. With this output power, we can supply Bedelle Agricultural and Forestry College under Mettu University and nearby rural area. Having the head, flow rate and output power of the river into consideration, the turbine selected was cross flow turbine with specific speed of 243 rpm, runner diameter of 52 cm, runner length of 82 cm, blade radius 17 cm and blade number of 18. 24 poles synchronous motor was selected as the Generator with rotational speed of 250 rpm. International renewable energy agency cost analysis was used to analyze financial viability of the project. The annual energy production estimated was 289,908kwh and the anticipated revenue to be generated is 136,256 birr. The initial cost of the project estimated to be 2.475 million birr.