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: Renuka Chaudhary Submitted to: Mr Suraj KC

Grade: 11 The department of Physics
Section: S1 Himal Academy Dang
Roll no: 30 Tulsipur-6,Dang
 CONTENTS

CERTIFICATE ......................................................................................................................1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .....................................................................................................2
DECLARATION ...................................................................................................................3
RECOMMENDATION .........................................................................................................4
CHAPTER 1...........................................................................................................................5
1.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................5
1.2 WORKING MECHANISM ..........................................................................................5
CHAPTER 2...........................................................................................................................7
2.1 Global potential and Nepal’s potential in hydroelectricity ...........................................7
2.2 Types of Hydro power plant .........................................................................................8
2.3 Types of hydropower plant dam................................................................................9
2.3 Types of turbines ....................................................................................................... 10
CHAPTER 3........................................................................................................................ 11
3.1 Development of hydropower in Nepal ..................................................................... 11
3.2 Major hydro projects in Nepal .................................................................................. 12
3.3 A Brief introduction to Kaligandaki Hydroproject.................................................... 14
3.4 My Experience in visiting Kaligandaki Hydro project .............................................. 15
3.5 Some Pictures of Kaligandaki Hydropower .............................................................. 16
CHAPTER 4........................................................................................................................ 17
4.1 Environmental Impacts of Hydropower .................................................................... 17
REFERENCES.................................................................................................................... 18
 CERTIFICATE

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

OF NEPAL AND KALIGANDAKI PROJECT” by “Mrs. Renuka Chaudhary ” 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:

1
 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 also 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.

2
 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.

Mrs. Renuka Chaudhary

Himal Academy Dang
Class XI
Section: S1
Roll no : 30

3
 RECOMMENDATION

This is to certify that Mrs. Renuka Chaudhary 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

4
 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.

1.2 WORKING MECHANISM

Hydropower uses water to generate electricity, plants are usually located on or near a water source. The energy
available from the moving water depends on both the volume of the water flow and the change in elevation
from one point to another. The greater the flow and the higher the elevation, the more the electricity that can
be generated.
Hydropower plants capture the energy of falling water to generate electricity. A turbine converts the kinetic
energy of falling water into mechanical energy. Then a generator converts the mechanical energy from the
turbine into electrical energy.
5
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.

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 farther the water falls, the more power it has. Generally, the distance
that the water falls depends on the size of the dam. The higher the dam, the farther the water falls and
the more power it has. Scientists would say that the power of falling water is "directly proportional" to
the distance.

⚫ Amount of water flowing in the river: More water falling through the turbine will produce
more power. The amount of water available depends on the amount of water flowing down the river.
Bigger rivers have more flowing water and can produce more energy. Power is also "directly
proportional" to river flow.

6
 CHAPTER 2

2.1 Global potential and Nepal’s potential in hydroelectricity

Hydroelectric power is currently one of the

largest sources of renewable energy in the
world, accounting for around 14.4% of
global electricity generation. According to
the International Energy Agency (IEA),
hydroelectricity has the potential to provide
up to 26% of the world's electricity by 2050.
The potential for hydroelectric power
generation varies greatly by region,
depending on factors such as topography,
water availability, and economic
considerations. Some countries, such as
Norway, Canada, and Brazil, have a large
share of their electricity generated by
hydropower, while other countries have
limited potential due to their geography
or water resources. In terms of untapped
potential, the IEA estimates that the
technically feasible global potential for hydropower is around 14,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) per year, which is
nearly four times the current global hydropower generation. However, the actual amount of hydropower that
can be developed will depend on a range of factors, including environmental considerations, social impacts,
and economic feasibility. Nepal has significant potential in hydroelectricity, thanks to its abundance of
mountainous terrain and numerous rivers and streams. According to the International Hydropower Association,
Nepal has the potential to generate approximately 83,000 megawatts (MW) of hydropower, which is more than
40 times its current installed capacity. However, currently, Nepal only generates around 1,000 MW of
hydropower, which is less than 2% of its potential.

Despite its significant potential, the development of hydropower in Nepal has been slow due to various factors
such as lack of investment, political instability, and limited technical expertise. However, in recent years, the
Nepalese government has made efforts to promote hydropower development and has attracted foreign
investment in the sector. If Nepal can harness hydro power potential then Nepal could be the major player in
the energy sector in South Asia and significantly boost the economy.

7
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.

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.

8
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.

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.

9
2.3 Types of turbines

01. 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.

⚫ 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.

02. 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.

⚫ 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.

10
 CHAPTER 3

3.1 Development of hydropower in Nepal

The development of hydropower in Nepal has been a priority for the Nepalese government for many years, as
the significant potential for hydropower generation.
Some keys development in the development of hydropower in Nepal are:
⚫ Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) was established in 1985, which is responsible for the planning,
construction, and operation of hydropower projects in Nepal.
⚫ The National Energy Crisis Prevention and Electricity Development Decade (2016-2026) has been
announced with a plan to generate 15,000 MW of electricity within 10 years to address the energy crisis
and boost the economy.
⚫ The Nepal government has been actively seeking foreign investment in hydropower projects, and
several international companies have invested in hydropower projects in nepal.
⚫ Several large-scale hydropower projects are currently under construction in Nepal, including the Upper
Tamakoshi Hydropower Project, the Rasuwagadhi Hydropower project and the Budhi Gandaki
Hydropower project.
⚫ The government has also encouraged private sector participation in the development of hydropower
projects and several private companies have invested in smaller hydropower projects in Nepal.

Overall, the development of hydropower in Nepal has faced several challenges, including political
instability, financing issues, and technical difficulties. However, the Nepalese government's commitment to
developing hydropower, along with foreign investment and private sector participation, is expected to help
overcome these challenges and boost hydropower development in the country.

11
3.2 Major hydro projects in Nepal

Certainly! Nepal is blessed with abundant water resources, and hydropower plays a crucial role in meeting
the country’s energy needs. Here are some of the major hydropower projects in Nepal:

1. Kulekhani II Hydropower:

o Located in Nibuwatar, Makwanpur.

o Total installed capacity: 32 MW.
o Built as a peaking power plant and also serves as an emergency standby station.
o Yearly projected primary energy generating capacity: 104.6 GWh.
o Owned by the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)

2. Upper Bhotekoshi Hydropower:

o Situated in Sindhupalchok.
o Generates 45 MW of electricity.
o Constructed between 1997 and 2000, with power generation starting in January 2001.
o Majority of finances provided by Panda Energy International.

3. Upper Marsyangdi A Hydropower:

o Located in Lamjung.
o Produces 50 MW of energy.
o First hydroelectric project in Nepal directly funded by foreign investment.
o Joint venture between Power China Resources Ltd and Sino-Sagarmatha Power Company Ltd.

4. Upper Trishuli 3A Hydropower:

o Near Rasuwa.
o Generates 60 MW of power.
o Funded by China Exim Bank and overseen by the Nepal Electricity Authority.
o Contributes 8% of the country’s electricity consumption.

5. Kulekhani I Hydropower:

o Located in Kulekhani, Makwanpur.

o Installed capacity: 60 MW.
o Operated by the Nepal Electricity Authority.
o Provides clean energy to the nation

6. Lower Hewa Khola Hydropower Project:

o Located in the Taplejung district,
o Installed capacity:55 MW.
o It utilizes the water from the Hewa Khola River.

12
7. Chameliya Hydropower Project:
o Located in the Darchula district.
o Installed capacity:30 MW.
o Utilizes the water from the Chameliya River.

8. Rahughat Hydropower Project:

o Located in the Nawalparasi district.
o Installed capacity:32 MW.
o Utilizes the water from the Rahughat Khola.

9. West Seti Hydroelectric Project:

o Located in the Far Western region of Nepal
o Planned capacity :750 MW.

13
3.3 A Brief introduction to Kaligandaki Hydroproject

Kaligandaki A Hydroelectric Power Station is situated near Mirmi of Syangja District about 300 km to the
west of Kathmandu and 100 km from Pokhara in the same direction in Nepal.

The hydropower project is also the biggest hydropower project of Nepal. The dam and headworks are
situated on the Gandaki River at the confluence of the Andhikhola whereas the power house is located
downstream, around a bend in the river, in Beltari (About 7 km towards the South-East of Mirmi). A 5.9 km
(3.7 mi) long headrace tunnel connects the reservoir to the power station which contains three 48
MW Francis turbine-generators. Owner and operator of the power plant is Nepal Electricity Authority.

It is a run-of-river type of project and currently is the largest power plant of any kind in Nepal with an
installed capacity of 144 MW. Construction started in the year 1997 and was completed in the year 2002.
The three turbine & generators Toshiba Make were commissioned in March, April and May 2002.

The Kali Gandaki River originates in the high Himalayas carrying high sediment load. The river generates a
suspended sediment load of 43 Mt/yr, of which around 25 per cent consists of sand. This sand has a high
concentration of highly abrasive angular quartz. About 95 per cent of this suspended sediment load is
delivered during the monsoon, between late May and late September and is large enough to completely fill
the reservoir in a single monsoon season.

14
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.

Initially, I was greeted by the breathtaking beauty of the Syangja district and the 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.
During our visit, we were impressed by the project's steadfast dedication to environmental conservation and
sustainability. Their implementation of measures, including fish ladders and sedimentation ponds, clearly
demonstrates their commitment to minimizing the project's impact on local ecosystems and preserving the
ecological balance of the Kaligandaki River. It is essential to balance energy development with
environmental stewardship, and this project serves as an outstanding example of how this can be achieved
successfully.
During the tour of the project , 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.
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.

To sum up, my recent trip to the Kaligandaki Hydro Project was a truly enriching experience that deepened
my appreciation for the crucial role of hydropower in Nepal's energy landscape. Witnessing the ingenuity
and commitment of the project team firsthand was truly inspiring, and the project's attention to socio-
economic and environmental considerations left a lasting impression on me. I was heartened to see the
project team actively engaging with local communities and striving to ensure that everyone could benefit
from the project. This experience reinforced my belief in the transformative power of renewable energy and
motivated me to play my part in contributing to Nepal's sustainable development journey. I consider myself
fortunate to have had this opportunity, and I eagerly anticipate the emergence of more sustainable
development initiatives like this in the future.

15
3.5 Some Pictures of Kaligandaki Hydropower

16
 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.

17
 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

18