M.M. Mukhammadiev, K.S. Dzhuraev, D.A. Mamatkulov, N.M. Khasanzoda

Annotation:

This article comprehensively examines the relevant feasibility of utilizing the hydraulic energy of water flows at existing hydraulic structures equipped with flat slide gates for autonomous, eco-friendly electricity generation via micro hydropower plants (micro HPPs). Based on extensive source materials, a fully systematized methodology has been developed to determine the critical technical and economic parameters of micro HPPs, integrating hydraulic calculations of head and capacity with financial evaluation. The proposed methodology step-by-step encompasses the calculations of annual electricity generation, initial capital investments, annual operating expenses, potential equivalent fuel savings, net profit, and the final payback period of the energy installations. In the practical section, precise computational results are presented for a wide water flow rate range of 0.5 to 6.2 m³/s and a corresponding equipment capacity range of 12.05 to 98.23 kW. The data obtained by the authors clearly indicate a consistent decrease in the calculated project payback period from 4.960 to 3.029 years as the installed capacity of the micro HPP increases. These essential findings provide a solid scientific and economic justification for implementing micro HPPs  directly at hydraulic gates within water intake, outlet, and water-release structures. This integrated approach contributes significantly to the development of small-scale hydropower engineering and the rational, sustainable use of regional water resources.

Keywords: micro HPP, hydraulic gate, hydraulic head, water flow rate, capacity, electricity generation, capital investments, economic efficiency.