Streams Tech conducted a hydropower feasibility study to assess viable sites for both impoundment and run-of-the-river hydroelectric plants along the Sangu, Matamuhuri, and Bakkhali Rivers in Chattogram, Bangladesh. This World Bank-sponsored project identified and evaluated 19 potential sites for hydropower generation, estimating the hydroelectric power potential at each location. Using advanced hydrologic models and GIS-based topographic analysis, the study explored the region's hydroelectric potential, considering the area's unique topography, hydrology, and socio-economic factors.

Data Collection and Site Evaluation

• Field Survey: Extensive field surveys were conducted to collect essential data on site topography, river layout, flood data, land use patterns, and socio-economic conditions. This data was crucial for identifying and evaluating potential hydropower generation sites.
• Topographic and Rainfall Data: Collected topographic data using Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and rainfall data from satellite-based sources (NASA’s TRMM database), and river flow data from the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) for model calibration.

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Modeling

• HEC-HMS Model Development: Developed a watershed-based hydrologic model using HEC-HMS for each river or stream under study. The model accounted for the delineated watersheds, river systems, and watershed outlets, using measured flow data for calibration.
• Flow-Duration and Energy Curves: Generated outflow hydrographs, flow-duration curves, and power-duration curves at each potential site. These curves were converted into electric energy-duration curves, providing insights into hydropower generation potential.

Site and Plant Type Selection

• Flow-Mass Curves: Developed flow-mass curves for each selected site to estimate required storage volumes for different draft rates, particularly for impoundment-type plants. The calculations took into account the minimum environmental flow requirements to ensure system sustainability.
• Dam and Inundation Area Estimation: Estimated required dam heights and probable inundation areas upstream of the dams using a custom GIS tool developed by Streams Tech.
• Site Screening: Screened potential sites based on topography, land use, and environmental considerations, ensuring that the selected sites would maximize energy generation potential while minimizing adverse environmental impacts.

Hydropower Potential Assessment

• Hydropower Generation Potential: Estimated the hydropower generation potential for both impoundment and run-of-the-river plants, including the magnitude and availability of energy throughout the year. The analysis considered seasonal variations and flow availability.
• Year-Round Generation Analysis: Assessed the potential for year-round hydropower generation, ensuring that the proposed plants would meet energy demands while considering water availability and environmental sustainability.

• Client Workshops and Presentations: Conducted regular meetings and presentations to share the findings, analysis, and proposed solutions with the client. This included providing recommendations on the selection of plant types and locations for optimal hydropower generation.
• Feedback Integration: Actively engaged with the client throughout the project to incorporate their feedback and refine the study’s recommendations.

• Feasibility Report: Prepared and submitted a detailed technical feasibility study report, which included all findings from the field surveys, data analysis, and modeling efforts. The report provided comprehensive recommendations on the most viable hydropower sites and plant types, along with the necessary infrastructure improvements.