Cost Analysis of Implementing In-Pipe Hydro Turbine in the United Arab Emirates Water Network

Water transmission lines have potential reserved energy, which is usually lost. Therefore, targeting this clean energy to produce electricity to power up the auxiliaries and utilities of water plants or consumers is financially and environmentally beneficial. This paper aims to investigate the feasibility of installing an inline hydropower system in an existing transmission water pipe. It analyzes the feasibility of implementing a mini-hydropower plant in the transmission line of Liwa's reservoir in the UAE. The maximum possible power harvested is 218.175 kW at the given water flow rate and net head. The payback period and the return on investment are analyzed based on different scenarios related to capital investment, operation, maintenance cost, and plant capacity factor. It is found that the payback period ranges between one to six years, where the return on investment can be as high as 85%. Furthermore, the expected CO2 emissions saving for this project is calculated to be between 395 and 1939 tons per year.

Automated summary

Water transmission lines have the potential for energy recovery, which can be harnessed to produce electricity for water plants or consumers, providing financial and environmental benefits. This study explores the feasibility of installing an inline hydropower system in an existing transmission water pipe. The analysis focuses on a mini-hydropower plant in Liwa's reservoir transmission line in the UAE, finding a maximum power harvest of 218.175 kW. The payback period ranges from one to six years, with a potential return on investment of up to 85%, and estimated yearly CO2 emissions savings between 395 and 1939 tons.