A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO HYDROELECTRICITY OF

NEPAL AND KALIGANDAKI PROJECT

A project work submitted to Himal Academy Dang, National Examination Board for the
partial fulfillment of the requirement of Grade XI of Physics

Submitted By: Diplaxmi Shah Submitted to: Mr Suraj KC

Grade: 11 The department of Physics
Section: S1 Himal Academy Dang
Roll no: 15 Tulsipur-6,Dang
 CONTENTS

Certificate 1

Acknowledgement 2

Declaration 3

Recommendation 4

Chapter 1

1.1 Introduction 5

1.2 Working mechanism 6-7

Chapter 2

2.1 Global potential of hydro and Nepal's potential 8

2.2 Types of Hydro 9

2.3 Types of Dams 10-11

2.4 Types of turbines 11-12

Chapter3

3.1 Development of Hydro in Nepal 13

3.2 Some major hydro projects of Nepal 14

3.3 A brief introduction of KaliGandaki Hydro Project 15-16

3.4 My experience of visiting a KaliGandaki 17

3.5 Some pictures of Kaligandaki 18

Chapter4

4.1 Environmental impact of Hydro 19

4.2 Reference 20
 CERTIFICATE

We certify that the project work entitled “A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO

HYDROELECTRICITY OF NEPAL AND KALIGANDAKI PROJECT” by Ms. Diplaxmi
Shah has successfully been prepared under the physics department of Himal Academy. The
project has not been submitted to any other college or school.

We find the work satisfactory and may be considered as the partial fulfillment of the
requirement of Physics of Grade 11.

SURAJ KC MADHU SUDHAN KC

Name of Supervisor Name of principal
Himal Academy Dang Himal Academy Dang

……………….. CHANDRA BAHADUR KC

External Internal (Himal Academy dang)
Date:2000/00/00

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Initially, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to my supervisor MR. SURAJ

KC for providing the opportunity to do this wonderful project and for his able guidance and

support in completing my project on hydro power. I would also like to express the gratitude of

thanks to our principal MR. MADHU SUDHAN KC for providing all the facilities and for

organizing a trip to Kaligandaki hydro power.

Secondly, I would also like to thank my parents who gave me the opportunity to go on the

trip and provided me with essential equipment required for the project. And huge thanks to my

friends and my seniors who helped me directly or indirectly in completing the project.

I am not only doing this project for marks but also to increase my knowledge.

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 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the project entitled “A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO

HYDROELECTRICITY OF NEPAL AND KALIGANDAKI PROJECT” submitted by
me to the department of physics, Himal Academy Dang is an original piece of work done
by me on the supervision of Mr. Suraj KC submitted for the partial fulfillment of requirements
put forward by the NEB. This article is not submitted to any other institutions or university for
any awards or degree.

Ms. Diplaxmi Shah

Himal Academy Dang
Class XI
Section: S1
Roll no: 15

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 RECOMMENDATION

This is to certify that Ms. Diplaxmi Shah has carried out the project A BRIEF
INTRODUCTION TO HYDROELECTRICITY OF NEPAL AND KALIGANDAKI
PROJECT” under my guidance and supervision.

I recommend the project work as the partial fulfillment of the requirement of grade XI of
science in physics.

Supervisor
Name: Suraj KC
Himal Academy Dang
Tulsipur-6, Dang
Date: 2080/01/06

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 CHAPTER 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Hydropower or hydroelectric power is a renewable source of energy that generates power by

using a dam or diversion structure to alter the natural flow of a river or other body of water.
Hydropower relies on the endless, constantly recharging system of the water cycle to produce
electricity, using water as fuel that is not reduced or eliminated in the process. It is basically
the conversion of gravitational potential energy of water into kinetic energy. Hydropower is a
method of sustainable energy production. It is now used principally for hydroelectric power
generation. It is an attractive alternative for fossil fuel as it doesn’t produce greenhouse gasses
or any other pollutants that pollutes the atmosphere and provides a relatively consistent power
supply.

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1.2 WORKING MECHANISM

Hydropower harnesses the power of water to produce electricity, with plants typically situated
near water sources. The amount of energy derived from flowing water is contingent upon two
factors: the volume of water flow and the variance in elevation between two points. Simply
put, a higher flow rate and greater elevation differential translate into increased electricity
generation potential. At hydropower plants, the energy of falling water is captured to drive
electricity generation. This process begins with a turbine, which transforms the kinetic energy
of falling water into mechanical energy. Subsequently, a generator converts the mechanical
energy generated by the turbine into electrical energy, completing the cycle of energy
conversion from water to electricity.
A hydro power plant consists of the following parts:
⚫ Reservoir: It stores the water
and raises the water level of the
river to create falling water. Also
controls the flow of water.
⚫ Turbine: The force of falling
water pushing against the
turbine's blades causes the
turbine to spin. A water turbine
is much like a windmill, except the energy is provided by falling water instead of wind.
The turbine converts the kinetic energy of falling water into mechanical energy.
⚫ Generator: Connected to the turbine by shafts and possibly gears so when the turbine
spins it causes the generator to spin also. Converts the mechanical energy from the
turbine into electric energy. Generators in hydropower plants work just like the
generators in other types of power plants
⚫ Transmission line: They conduct electricity from the hydropower plant and distribute
it to homes and businesses.
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How Much Electricity Can a Hydroelectric Plant Make?

The amount of electricity a hydropower plant produces depends on two factors:

⚫ How far the water falls: The power of falling water is directly correlated with the
distance it descends. Typically, the distance water falls is contingent upon the size of the
dam. Consequently, the greater the height of the dam, the longer the distance the water
descends, resulting in increased power. From a scientific perspective, experts assert that
the power generated by falling water is directly proportional to the distance it travels.

⚫ Amount of water flowing in the river: The power output is directly influenced by the
volume of water passing through the turbine. Greater water flow translates to increased
power generation. The availability of water hinges on the flow rate of the river.
Naturally, larger rivers boasting higher flow rates yield more water, thereby generating
greater energy output. In essence, the power generated is directly proportional to the
flow rate of the river.

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 CHAPTER 2

2.1 Global potential and Nepal’s potential in hydroelectricity

Hydroelectric power stands as one of

the foremost renewable energy
sources globally, currently
contributing approximately 14.4% to
the world's electricity generation.
Forecasts by the International Energy
Agency (IEA) suggest that by 2050,
hydroelectricity could potentially
fulfill up to 26% of the world's
electricity demand.The viability of
hydroelectric power varies
significantly across regions,
contingent upon factors such as terrain, water availability, and economic feasibility. Nations
like Norway, Canada, and Brazil exemplify this, boasting substantial proportions of their
electricity sourced from hydropower. Conversely, certain countries face constraints due to
geographical limitations or water resource scarcity.

In terms of untapped potential, the IEA estimates a technically feasible global capacity of
approximately 14,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) per year, nearly quadruple the current global
hydropower output. However, the realization of this potential is subject to multiple
considerations, encompassing environmental impacts, societal ramifications, and economic
viability.

Nepal emerges as a prime example of untapped hydroelectric potential, owing to its rugged
terrain and abundant waterways. The International Hydropower Association estimates
Nepal's capacity at approximately 83,000 megawatts (MW), a staggering 40-fold increase
from its current installed capacity. Despite this immense potential, Nepal presently harnesses
just a fraction, generating around 1,000 MW, representing less than 2% of its overall
potential.

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Challenges in Nepal's hydropower development landscape, including insufficient investment,
political instability, and a shortage of technical expertise, have impeded progress.
Nonetheless, recent initiatives by the Nepalese government aimed at promoting hydropower
development and attracting foreign investment signal a potential turning point. With effective
utilization of its hydroelectric potential, Nepal could emerge as a dominant force in the South
Asian energy sector, catalyzing substantial economic growth.

2.2 Types of Hydro power plant

There are mainly three types of hydropower facilities. They are:

1. Impoundment hydro power plant:

These are the most common type of hydro
power plants and involve the construction of
a dam on a river or other waterway to create
a reservoir. The water from the reservoir is
then released through turbines to generate
electricity.

2. Diversion hydro power plant:

These plants divert a portion of the water
from a river or other waterway through a
canal or pipeline to a turbine. They are
typically used in areas where there is not
enough flow to support a large impoundment
or run-of-river plant.

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 3. Pumped storage hydro power plant:
These plants use two reservoirs at
different elevations to store and generate
electricity. During periods of low
demand, water is pumped from the lower
reservoir to the upper reservoir. During
periods of high demand, the water is
released back down to the lower reservoir
through turbines to generate electricity.

2.3Types of hydropower plant dam

1. Gravity dams:
These are the most common type of dam used in
hydropower generation. They are constructed of
concrete and are designed to resist the force of the water
by their weight.

2. Embankment dams:
These dams are constructed of compacted earth or
rock and are used in areas where concrete is not
readily available or cost-effective. They are designed
to resist the force of the water by the weight of the
embankment.

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3. Arc dams: These dams are curved in shape and rely
on the strength of the arch to resist the force of the
water. They are often used in narrow canyons or
valleys where there is limited space for a wide base.

4. Buttress dams: These dams are similar to

concrete gravity dams, but they are supported by
buttresses or supports on the downstream side.
They are often used in areas where the foundation
is not strong enough to support the weight of a
gravity dam.

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 2.3Types of turbines

1. Impulse turbine:
⚫ Peloton turbine: This turbine is designed to operate at
high heads and low flows. It uses water jets that strike
buckets attached to a wheel to generate torque and rotate
the turbine.

2. Crossflow turbine: This turbine is a type of impulse

turbine that uses the kinetic energy of water to generate
mechanical energy. It is often used in small-scale
hydropower systems.

3. Reaction turbine:
⚫ Kaplan turbine: This turbine is a propeller-type
turbine that is used in low head, high flow applications.
It has adjustable blades that allow for efficient
operation over a wide range of water flow rates and
heads.

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4.Francis turbine: This is the most widely used turbine in
hydropower generation. It is a reaction turbine that works
by converting the kinetic energy of water into mechanical
energy. It is used in medium to high head applications.

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 CHAPTER 3

3.1 Development of hydropower in Nepal

Hydropower development has remained a cornerstone of Nepal's governmental agenda,

driven by the country's substantial potential in hydropower generation. Several pivotal
milestones mark Nepal's journey in hydropower development:

• Establishment of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) in 1985, tasked with the
strategic planning, construction, and operation of hydropower projects across the
nation.
• Declaration of the National Energy Crisis Prevention and Electricity Development
Decade (2016-2026), aimed at generating 15,000 MW of electricity within a decade to
mitigate energy shortages and stimulate economic growth.
• Active solicitation of foreign investment by the Nepalese government in hydropower
initiatives, resulting in participation from numerous international corporations in
Nepal's hydropower projects.
• Ongoing construction of several large-scale hydropower ventures, such as the Upper
Tamakoshi, Rasuwagadhi, and Budhi Gandaki Hydropower projects, indicative of
Nepal's commitment to expanding its energy infrastructure.
• Encouragement of private sector involvement in hydropower development, leading to
investments by various private enterprises in smaller hydropower projects throughout
Nepal.

Despite significant progress, the journey of hydropower development in Nepal has been
fraught with challenges, including political instability, financial constraints, and technical
intricacies. Nevertheless, the unwavering dedication of the Nepalese government, coupled
with foreign investments and private sector engagement, is poised to surmount these
obstacles and propel hydropower development to new heights in the country.

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3.2 Major hydro projects in Nepal

Nepal, endowed with abundant water resources and rugged terrain, boasts a plethora of
significant hydroelectric projects contributing to its energy portfolio. These projects, ranging
from large-scale ventures to smaller initiatives, play a pivotal role in meeting the nation's
energy demands and fostering economic growth. Below are some of the notable hydro
projects shaping Nepal's energy landscape:

1. Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project

Located in the Dolakha district of Nepal, the Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project stands as
one of the largest hydroelectric ventures in the country. With a planned capacity of 456
megawatts (MW), this project harnesses the immense potential of the Tamakoshi River to
generate clean and renewable energy. Upon completion, it is expected to significantly
augment Nepal's electricity supply.

2. Arun III Hydropower Project

Situated in the Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts of eastern Nepal, the Arun III
Hydropower Project is another prominent undertaking in Nepal's hydropower sector. With a
proposed capacity of 900 MW, this run-of-the-river project utilizes the mighty Arun River to
generate electricity. Once operational, it is anticipated to play a crucial role in bolstering
Nepal's energy security and stimulating socio-economic development in the region.

3. Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project

The Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project, located in the Gorkha and Dhading districts of
Nepal, is a monumental initiative aimed at harnessing the potential of the Budhi Gandaki
River. With a planned capacity of 1,200 MW, this project holds significant promise for
Nepal's energy future. Upon completion, it is poised to become one of the largest hydropower
plants in the country, contributing substantially to Nepal's energy mix.

4. Lower Arun Hydropower Project

The Lower Arun Hydropower Project, situated in the Sankhuwasabha and Sunsari districts of
eastern Nepal, is envisioned as a run-of-the-river scheme harnessing the energy of the Arun
River. With a proposed capacity of 400 MW, this project aims to leverage Nepal's abundant
water resources to generate clean and sustainable electricity. It is expected to bolster Nepal's
energy independence and spur regional development.

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5. Upper Karnali Hydropower Project

The Upper Karnali Hydropower Project, located in the Surkhet, Dailekh, and Achham
districts of western Nepal, is a significant undertaking aimed at harnessing the hydropower
potential of the Karnali River. With a planned capacity of 900 MW, this project holds
promise for addressing Nepal's energy deficits and driving economic growth. It is poised to
become a cornerstone of Nepal's energy infrastructure upon completion.

These major hydro projects underscore Nepal's commitment to harnessing its abundant water
resources for sustainable development. By leveraging the power of its rivers, Nepal is poised
to emerge as a regional leader in clean energy generation, paving the way for a brighter and
more sustainable future.

3.3 A Brief introduction to Kaligandaki Hydro project:

The Kaligandaki Hydro Project stands as a testament to Nepal's rich hydropower potential
and its commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources for sustainable development.
Situated on the Kaligandaki River in the Syangja district of Nepal, this hydroelectric venture
represents one of the pioneering initiatives in Nepal's energy sector. Below is an overview of
the Kaligandaki Hydro Project:

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• Location and Setting
The Kaligandaki Hydro Project is strategically located on the Kaligandaki River, one
of the major rivers in Nepal originating from the Tibetan Plateau. Nestled amidst the
picturesque landscapes of the Syangja district, the project benefits from the region's
rugged terrain and abundant water resources, making it an ideal site for hydroelectric
development.
• Capacity and Operation
With a total installed capacity of approximately 144 megawatts (MW), the Kaligandaki
Hydro Project plays a significant role in Nepal's energy portfolio. Utilizing a run-of-
the-river design, the project harnesses the natural flow of the Kaligandaki River to
generate clean and renewable electricity. The project's operation is characterized by its
efficiency and reliability, contributing to Nepal's energy security and economic growth.
• Contribution to Energy Sector
The Kaligandaki Hydro Project makes a substantial contribution to Nepal's energy
sector, providing a reliable and sustainable source of electricity to meet the country's
growing energy demands. By tapping into the immense hydropower potential of the
Kaligandaki River, the project helps reduce Nepal's dependence on imported electricity
and fossil fuels, thereby mitigating energy shortages and promoting environmental
sustainability.

• Socio-Economic Impact
In addition to its contributions to the energy sector, the Kaligandaki Hydro Project has
significant socio-economic implications for the region. The project has created
employment opportunities, stimulated local economies, and supported infrastructure
development in surrounding areas. Furthermore, it has enhanced access to electricity,
improving living standards and fostering socio-economic development in the region.
• Environmental Considerations
Despite its undeniable benefits, the Kaligandaki Hydro Project also raises
environmental considerations. While hydroelectricity is a clean and renewable energy
source, the construction and operation of hydropower projects can impact local
ecosystems and biodiversity. Therefore, it is essential to implement effective
environmental management practices and mitigate potential environmental impacts to
ensure the project's sustainability.

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 • Prospects
Looking ahead, the Kaligandaki Hydro Project is poised to continue playing a vital role
in Nepal's energy transition and sustainable development efforts. As Nepal strives to
expand its renewable energy capacity and achieve energy self-sufficiency, the project
will remain a cornerstone of the country's energy infrastructure, contributing to its
socio-economic prosperity and environmental stewardship.

3.4 My experience in visiting kaligandaki Hydro project:

Visiting the Kaligandaki Hydro Project was an illuminating experience that provided
invaluable insights into Nepal's hydroelectric sector and the intricate process of generating
clean and renewable energy. Below, I recount my observations and reflections from the visit:

• Arrival and Overview

Upon arrival at the Kaligandaki Hydro Project site, I was greeted by the breathtaking
beauty of the Syangja district and the majestic Kaligandaki River flowing through the
landscape. The scale of the project's infrastructure was awe-inspiring, with the dam and
powerhouse standing as monumental structures against the backdrop of the
surrounding mountains.
• Guided Tour and Technical Insights
During the guided tour of the project facilities, I gained a comprehensive
understanding of the technology and processes involved in hydroelectric power
generation. From the intake structures diverting water from the river to the turbines
converting kinetic energy into electricity, every aspect of the project's operation was
meticulously explained, highlighting the efficiency and innovation driving Nepal's
hydropower sector.
• Environmental Considerations and Sustainability
One aspect that stood out during the visit was the project's commitment to
environmental conservation and sustainability. Measures such as fish ladders and
sedimentation ponds were implemented to minimize the project's impact on local
ecosystems and maintain the ecological balance of the Kaligandaki River. This
underscored the importance of balancing energy development with environmental
stewardship.

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 • Socio-Economic Impact and Community Engagement
I was also impressed by the project's efforts to engage with local communities and
mitigate potential socio-economic impacts. Initiatives such as livelihood support
programs, infrastructure development projects, and job opportunities for local residents
demonstrated the project's commitment to fostering positive socio-economic outcomes
and enhancing community well-being.
• Conclusion and Reflection
In conclusion, my visit to the Kaligandaki Hydro Project was an enriching experience
that deepened my appreciation for the role of hydropower in Nepal's energy landscape.
Witnessing firsthand the ingenuity and dedication of the project team, coupled with the
project's socio-economic and environmental considerations, left a lasting impression on
me. It reinforced my belief in the transformative power of renewable energy and
inspired me to contribute to Nepal's sustainable development journey.

3.5 Some Pictures of Kaligandaki Hydropower

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 Chapter 4

4.1 Environmental Impacts of Hydropower

Hydropower can have both positive and negative environmental impacts, depending on how
it is developed and managed. Some of the potential environmental impacts of hydropower
include:
⚫ The construction of hydropower dams and reservoirs can alter natural water flow,
sediment transport, and temperature regimes, which can negatively affect aquatic
ecosystems and fish populations.
⚫ Hydropower projects can result in the loss of wildlife habitat and displacement of
wildlife, particularly if dams or reservoirs are built in areas with high biodiversity.
⚫ While hydropower is considered a renewable energy source, the creation of reservoirs
can lead to the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as organic matter
decomposes in the flooded areas.
⚫ The construction of dams and reservoirs can pose risks to downstream communities and
ecosystems if there is a dam failure, which can cause significant damage to property,
infrastructure, and loss of life.
⚫ The construction of hydropower projects can also have cultural and social impacts,
particularly if they displace indigenous or local communities, or if there are impacts on
traditional ways of life and cultural practices.

However, it is worth noting that hydropower is generally considered a relatively low-impact

form of renewable energy when compared to other forms of energy generation, such as fossil
fuel-based power plants. The specific environmental impacts of a hydropower project will
depend on a range of factors, including its location, size, and design, as well as how it is
operated and managed.

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4.2 References

I visited Tinau hydropower and took help from my physics teachers MR. SURAJ KC and
MR. CHANDRA KC. I also searched for various articles and news in different websites, some
of them are:
⚫ https://chat.openai.com/
⚫ https://www.doed.gov.np
⚫ https://www.tuiost.edu.np/storage/notice/f-edited966.pdf
⚫ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydropower

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