Measurement methods for hydropower resources: a review

Abstract: Each hydropower plant is usually designed for specific amount of discharge and gross head. This paper presents the

methods used to measure the discharge and gross head variables with additional of assessment tools. Discharge

measurement methods covered include bucket, float, velocity-area, dilution, hydraulic structure and advanced

discharge measurement while gross head measurement methods covered include topographic and DEM maps, hose

level with pressure gauge, sight level, spirit level and advanced survey instruments. The assessment tools presented

include SMART MINI-IDRO, Integrated Method for Power Analysis, VIPIDRO ASTE 4.0, Hydromatch, Hydrohelp

and Renewable Energy Technology Screen tool. The assessment tools used to estimate the potential of hydropower

resources in terms of energy, hydropower plant components and financial analysis. Therefore, this review paper

indicated the possibility of conducting a pre-feasibility study of hydropower estimation by using the open access tools

and accessible equipment in the carpentry and mason works, especially in the developing countries.