Evaluation of the hydroelectric power potential in the Beshilo Sub-Basin of the Abay River, Ethiopia

Abstract

Ethiopia boasts significant hydropower potential, but the country faces a daunting energy challenge, as a majority of its population relies on traditional energy sources. The scarcity of power not only leads to an unappealing living environment but also exposes the populace to the adverse effects of climate change resulting from associated environmental impacts. Many villages lack electricity due to power shortages, emphasizing the need for an energy policy that prioritizes addressing the power deficit. Consequently, assessing additional hydropower potential becomes crucial. This study focuses on evaluating the hydropower potential of the Beshilo River and identifying potential sites using an integrated approach involving Geographic Information System (GIS) and the hydrological model Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The SWAT model utilized long-duration real-time hydrometeorological datasets for hydrological data simulation and parameterization. Given the absence of recent recorded data for the Beshilo River, a flow transfer method, specifically the area ratio method, was employed in this study. Daily flow data facilitated the identification of potential hydropower sites within the watershed. The study successfully characterized the entire catchment into various sub catchments, allowing for the identification of hydropower potential zones and suitable site locations for hydropower stations along the stream network. The model calibration and validation demonstrated a strong correlation between simulated and observed datasets, with R2 and ENS values indicating good model performance (≥0.70). Results revealed a substantial hydropower potential in the lower course of the Beshilo River, with corresponding values at 90%, 75%, and 50% of dependable flow being 2320.26 KW, 8899.63 KW, and 42750.01 KW, respectively. In the middle part of the river, potential values at these percentages were 1395.86 KW, 5369.44 KW, and 21561.83 KW, while in the upper part, they were 529.74 KW, 2074.81 KW, and 12757 KW, respectively.