Assessment of the Power Potentials of Ofu Stream for Mini Hydroelectric Development

Abstract

Analytical assessment of the water energy resources in Ofu stream segments at Ofokopi, as one of the hydrologic regions of Kogi state, Nigeria was carried out. The principal focus was on the determination of the stream segments parameters of head, flow, power potentials and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Two appropriate sites in close cascade were identified namely, Ofu I and Ofu II. Garmin GPSMAP 76S global positioning system was used to determine the gross hydraulic heads which gave 11.84 m and 8.60 m respectively. Power potentials of magnitude of 330 kW and 118.8 kW and annual energy generation of 2,890.80 MWhr and 1,040.69 MWhr respectively were estimated. The results of the EIA study yield negligible impact on the locality. The estimated power being in the mini hydroelectric schemes category, the identified sites could be developed to provide electric power for socio-economic transformation of the rural area.