Analysis of Hydropower Potential and the Prospects of Developing Hydropower Engineering in South Ural of the Russian Federation

The article presents the analysis of hydropower potential, and considers the possibilities for the development of hydropower engineering in the mountainous areas of South Ural, primarily in Chelyabinsk Region. Substantial deficit of electric power in the South Ural compared to demand is recognized. The advantages and disadvantages of hydropower engineering compared to other electric power sources are described, specifically the fact that the conversion of mechanical power of water into its electric power takes place at hydroelectric generating stations without the interlocutory heat production, and also the fact that this type of resource is renewable. The role and position of hydropower resources in the global electric power balance is determined. Global perspectives of hydropower engineering are analyzed. Power supply data of the area of interest are given. The zoning of Chelyabinsk oblast based on its hydropower resources is presented. The structure of the regional special program for Hydropower Engineering Development in Chelyabinsk Region is proposed. The conclusion about sufficient prospects for the development of hydropower engineering in the mountainous areas of the South Ural is proved valid. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.