Maximizing Power Production on a River: Can We Meet Our Needs?

In summary, the 10 hydropower stations along a river produce 1000MW of power. The power is available regardless of the number of stations along the river, but there is a maximum number of stations that can be used.
  • #1
gianeshwar
226
14
Suppose along a river which is descending a mountain.On the river there are 10 hydropower stations A,B,C...J suppose at distances of 10km each.Now each station producees 100MW Power.So we get 1000MW.
My Question is 'In this way can we produce as much power as we require by increasing number of stations on the same river at our discretion?'
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
As you can imagine, each station is extracting energy from river, so somehow something must be "adding" energy to the river before it can be extracted. Can you think of what that "something" may be? Hint: you already referred to it in your post, but perhaps without thinking about exactly what it means in this situation.
 
  • #3
I understand that potential energy and kinetic energy as well of water is getting converted to rotational energy of turbine wheels at each stage.But still can we get energy at our discretion?
 
  • #4
Depends on the overall fall you have available.
 
  • #5
So in overall fall of 1000 metres suppose we can install maximum numver of plants!
 
  • #6
gianeshwar said:
Suppose along a river which is descending a mountain.On the river there are 10 hydropower stations A,B,C...J suppose at distances of 10km each.Now each station producees 100MW Power.So we get 1000MW.
My Question is 'In this way can we produce as much power as we require by increasing number of stations on the same river at our discretion?'

gianeshwar said:
So in overall fall of 1000 metres suppose we can install maximum numver of plants!

One turbine for the full drop produces twice the power of 2 turbines with half drop, and so on. The total energy available from the drop does not change by adding more turbines along the way.

In fact, there will be some optimum number of stations that minimize the losses in the conversion, but the total power output will still have a maximum that is a bit less than the total energy stored in the water drop.
 
  • #7
I thank all friends answering.
 
  • #8
Well as long as after each station there is maintained the same amount of water and the same decrease in height (gravitational potential of the flowing water) the you could extract the same amount of power as in the station before but you realize that in real life rivers don't flow just downwards also they are not infinitely long so that puts a limit on how much hydro power plants we can physically put on a single river so that each of them would be useful.
 

1. How do we determine the maximum power production potential on a river?

To determine the maximum power production potential on a river, several factors must be considered including the river's flow rate, topography, and available technology for harnessing hydropower. A thorough feasibility study is necessary to accurately determine the maximum power production potential.

2. What are the environmental impacts of maximizing power production on a river?

Maximizing power production on a river can have significant environmental impacts. Building dams and other structures can disrupt natural habitats and alter the flow and temperature of the river. It is important to carefully consider and mitigate these impacts before proceeding with any power production project.

3. How can we balance the need for power with the need to protect the river ecosystem?

Balancing the need for power production with the need to protect the river ecosystem requires careful planning and consideration. This can include implementing sustainable practices, such as fish ladders and flow control mechanisms, that allow for power production while minimizing impacts on the ecosystem.

4. Are there any alternative methods for maximizing power production on a river?

Yes, there are alternative methods for maximizing power production on a river. These include using smaller, low-impact hydro turbines or utilizing other renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. These methods can provide power while minimizing the environmental impacts on the river.

5. What are the economic considerations for maximizing power production on a river?

Economic considerations for maximizing power production on a river include the cost of building and maintaining infrastructure, potential revenue from selling power, and any potential economic benefits to the local community. It is important to carefully weigh these factors and consider the long-term costs and benefits before pursuing any power production project on a river.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
821
  • Materials and Chemical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
42
Views
14K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
7K
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top