A Review of Small Hydropower Plants in Iran and the World: Installed and Potential Capacities, Challenges and Opportunities

Document Type : Review Article

Author

Master of Electrical Power Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran

Abstract

In recent years, increasing demand for electricity, along with pollution and the depletion of fossil fuels, has encouraged countries around the world to use renewable energy. Small hydropower plants are one of the newest renewable power plants that can be built on small rivers without the need for a dam. In this article, the construction of these power plants, feasibility studies and related economic analyzes, and finally, the work done and their potential capacities, in Iran, will be discussed. The results show that there is a lot of potential for these power plants in many countries of the world, especially developing countries. Easier construction and operation, less environmental problems and the ability to participate in the microgrid are the most important advantages of these power plants. Furthermore, the construction of these power plants in rural areas and away from the network can lead to job creation; Pursue economic benefits and reduce the dependence of these areas on the main power system. Advances in research in recent years have made small hydropower plants a mature and versatile technology that, if technical, social, and environmental barriers are removed, along with appropriate legislation and incentive policies, can play a significant role in meeting the demand for electricity from renewable resources.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Renewable and New Energy
Volume 8, Issue 2 - Serial Number 16
September 2021
Pages 131-138

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 September 2020
  • Revise Date: 07 October 2020
  • Accept Date: 04 June 2021

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