Sustainable Hydropower in West Africa: Planning, Operation, and Challenges provides a comprehensive overview of the planning, deployment and management of hydropower in West Africa and similar regions. The authors use a practical approach to analyze available technology, modeling methodologies and sustainability aspects, such as the dependence between climate and hydropower, and socio-economic and environmental impacts. They discuss the need for innovative solutions and how to close research gaps in the field for this region. Although more than 50% of West Africa's hydropower potential is still untapped, re-engineering and maintenance of existing hydropower plants is a key issue and is discussed. Issues of productivity and optimization are also covered, as well as the introduction of new technology and integration of hydropower into existing energy systems—renewable energy systems, in particular. Policy and regulation are also examined, considering competing needs when managing water resources. The final chapter offers a summary of activities, strategies, policies and technology for easy reference and practical use. Due to its wide coverage and real life examples, this is a useful reference for engineering professionals in the field of hydropower, working in West Africa and regions with similar conditions. This book helps engineers make technology and location decisions for planning, deploying and operating hydropower plants. The book's accessible language and international authorship also allows for easy use by energy researchers, analysts and policy makers who need information for the analysis, modeling, financing, implementation and regulation of hydropower in West Africa and related regions. - Presents the most current issues related to hydropower deployment and management in West Africa and regions with similar conditions - Discusses key challenges, focusing on practical aspects and methodologies - Explores the technological, sustainability and economic aspects to be considered when deploying, operating and maintaining hydropower plants in West Africa and similar regions

Hydropower provides a complete discussion of the most up-to-date considerations of this method of creating renewable energy. After introducing the method's history, the author explores various considerations for engineers, planners and managers who need to determine the best placement and size of a plant. The book then presents various types of hydropower systems, such as Run-of-River Schemes and various types of Dam and Turbines, also considering the important economic, environmental and geological impacts of each. Those involved in the planning, design and management of hydropower systems, such as engineers, researchers, managers and policymakers will find this book a very valuable and insightful resource. - Explores different types of dams and turbines set alongside easy-to-understand diagrams, such as Embankment Dams, Concrete Arch Dams, Reaction Turbines and Francis Turbines - Considers various economic and environmental factors significant for this type of project, such as resettlement, biodiversity and greenhouse gases - Discusses best practices for locating a hydropower site and how to make important decisions regarding placement and method

Written for civil, structural and geotechnical engineers, this book presents the latest research and practical experience in the design of high-arch dams in seismically active regions, from an author team that is highly active and experienced in the design, development and construction of 300m high arch dams. The book covers the entire subject of dam design for seismic regions, including seismic input mechanisms and modeling, non-linear analysis techniques for dam structure and foundations, concrete material properties, and simulation techniques for dam design. Of particular value are the real-world experimental data and design case studies that enhance the book and ensure that readers can apply the theoretical content to their own projects. - Break through the conventional concepts in civil engineering discipline and focus on applying new techniques from other subject fields to seismic safety on high-arch dam design in an innovative way - Shows how to model and evaluate seismic safety of dams using seismic input, dam response and dynamic resistance - Summarizes the methodology and approaches applied to high-arch dam design and construction in China, demonstrates the selection of site-specific seismic input parameters, and enables the reader to apply this to their own specific design challenge

The design of a hydroelectric plant, along with an installation of transformation of potential energy of water into electricity, is an activity that is not standardized. Each new project is an interesting engineering challenge, and teams need to work in different conditions of each site, integrated to design a functional, economical and environmentally sustainable project. The development of a project, here understood as the plant itself, the reservoir, the maneuver substation and the associated transmission line, is a multidisciplinary activity that encompasses areas of civil engineering, geology, mechanical and electrical engineering, environmental engineering, economic engineering, construction and assembly, and the engineering of operation and maintenance of civil works and electromechanical equipment. The book is organized to facilitate the performance of professional life of the new generations of engineers who will join the Electric Sector, or in other sectors that demand the knowledge regarding hydraulic structures. The book is a simple manual providing the practical step-by-step procedure for designing hydroelectric plants, including legislation, with a general view of the project.

Hydropower is one of the biggest controversies in Vietnam in recent decades because of its adverse environmental and social consequences, especially negative impacts on displaced people who make way for hydropower dam construction. This book explains the controversies related to hydropower development in Vietnam in order to make policy recommendations for equitable and sustainable development. The book focuses on the analysis of emerging issues, such as land acquisition, compensation for losses, displacement and resettlement, support for livelihood development, and benefit sharing from hydropower development. The analysis emphasizes the role of different stakeholders in the decision-making process for hydropower development in Vietnam as a means to find a better governance model.

Providing essential theory and useful practical techniques for implementing hydroelectric projects, this book outlines the resources, power generation technologies, applications, and strengths and weaknesses for hydroelectric technologies. Emphasizing the links between energy and the environment, it serves as a useful background resource and facilitates decision-making regarding which renewable energy technology works best for different types of applications and regions. Including examples, real-world case studies, and lessons learned, each chapter contains exercise questions, references, and ample photographs and technical drawings from actual micro hydropower plants.