Evaluation of the Small Hydropower Potential of River Ethiope Using the RETScreen Software

In this study, the River Ethiope was critically studied as a source of renewable energy for small hydropower development. The aim was to carry out detailed evaluation of the river’s hydropower generation potential using RETScreen software.Data on daily flow that was used for flow duration curve was obtained from the Benin Owena River Basin Authority’s hydrological year book for a period of six years (1989 ? 1994). Also in this study, meteorological data on rainfall, temperature, wind evaporation and humidity were obtained from the Meteorological Weather Station at the Geography Department, Delta State University, Abraka. These data were used to observe the seasonal variations and how this variation affects the flow rate.RETScreen clean energy analysis software was used for the evaluation of the energy output from the River Ethiope. Four alternative project formulations were evaluated using the RETScreen software. The results of the four alternative project formulations using the RETScreen Software are as follows: Case 1(for a flow rate of Q = 9.6 m3 /s, with a head of 5, 10, 15 and 20 m, the output power P are: 357, 753,1142 and 1,526 kW respectively), Case 2 (for a flow rate of Q = 10.8 m3 /s, with a head of 5,10, 15 and 20 m, the output power P are: 402, 848,1,286, 1,719 kW respectively), Case 3 (for a flow rate of Q = 13.8 m3 /s, with a head of 5, 10, 15 and 20 m, the output power P are: 516, 1,086, 1,646, 2,200 kW respectively), Case 4 ( for a flow rate of Q = 31.73 m3 /s, with a head of 5, 10, 15 and 20 m, the output power P are: 1,195, 2,509, 3,800 and 5,079 kW respectively). The results of the evaluations showed that the River Ethiope is capable of generating 1.20 MW on a design flow of 31.73 m3 /s and a head of 5 m. While on a design flow of 31.73 m3 /s and a head of 15 m, 3.8 MW of electricity could be generated if properly harnessed. It can therefore be concluded that the River Ethiope when fully utilised could generate electric power capable of satisfying part of the power need of the surrounding communities.