Optimisation and economic modeling of micro hydropower plant integrated in water distribution system

As one of the key renewable energy source, hydropower is experiencing a growing development throughout the world. Micro hydropower plant is emerging as a decentralized source used particularly for meeting local energy demand. It is, therefore, of great significance to propose some effective methodologies in order to guarantee the whole production benefits of hydropower system. This paper evaluates the potential for installing micro hydropower within water distribution networks. Methodologies for assessing the feasibility of such installation are presented. The proper sizing for micro hydropower plant (MHP) is identified using an optimization algorithm which considers both the dimensioning of the main components and the assessment of the energy production. Technical and economic studies are performed to investigate the practicability and the profitability of this system. The proposed algorithm was applied as a case study to analyze the feasibility of installing a MHP in water supply system in Morocco. The environmental aspects of this installation are also considered in this work. The obtained results demonstrate that the cost of this installation is strongly decreased through the use of already existing infrastructures. Simulation results have shown that the economic gain is doubled with the proposed optimization algorithm. Additionally, the environmental analysis has revealed that an annual average of 282 tones can be reduced by generating energy using this environmentally friendly solution. The findings of the energetic, economic, and environmental analysis confirm the potential of integrating micro hydropower in water supply system. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.