ABSTRACT
SYNOPSIS
The importance of developing canal falls as source of hydro power generation in India has been well acknowledged. A number of power stations of the type have been commissioned and more are in the pipe line. The canal fall HE schemes are blessed with the advantages of small gestation periods, and are devoid of submergence,’ resettlement and other problems of environment and ecology.
Optimum scheme of hydro development with the best possible techno economic solutions, can be arrived in a canal system if the system is in its planning stage. However, certain limitations are faced while introducing the power component in the already existing canals. Site specific studies, with all possible alternatives are to be carried out to come out with the most economic layouts.
The most important feature of a canal fall hydro scheme is the automatic bypass arrangement to divert the water in case of load rejection(partial or full) at the power station. A fool proof arrangement is required to ensure uninterrupted flow in the canal system and to avoid the danger of overtopping due to upsurge. There are many ways to achieve this objective, but an appropriate method is to be adopted depending on the existing features, to arrive at an effective and economical solution. Self actuating gates which operate automatically according to a pre-determined design are very commonly adopted at the regulators for the canal fall power houses. Sometimes the gates at the canal regulators already existing before introducing the power house, may have to be utilised for serving the new purpose, after bringing out necessary modifications, in them.
An analysis of the experience gained in the Central Water Commission, while rendering consultancy to more than 20 power houses helped in bringing out some useful suggestions in layout, planning, design and construction, for the benefit of future schemes of this type.
