In the mountainous terrain of Taplejung District, Province 1, Nepal, the Tamor Khola-5 Hydropower Project is forging a path toward sustainable energy generation. Spearheaded by River Side Hydro Energy Pvt. Ltd., this venture is a testament to harnessing the natural bounty of Tamor River for the greater good of the region and the nation.
A Symphony of Nature and Engineering
The Tamor Khola-5 Hydropower Project is a Run-of-River initiative, a harmonious blend of technological innovation and environmental preservation. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Taplejung, the project is designed to seamlessly integrate with the natural flow of the Tamor River, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
Strategic Location and Hydrology
Situated in Phaktanglung Rural Municipality, the project’s geographical coordinates span from 27°30’25” N to 27°31’48” N latitude and 87°47’01” E to 87°48’33” E longitude. The catchment area of 1511.6 km² ensures a robust flow, with a design discharge of 47.5 m³/s, carefully calibrated to harness the river’s energy potential efficiently.
Diversion Dam and Intake Structure
The concrete gravity dam, with its ogee-profile geometry and crest elevation of 1496.00 m amsl, stands as a sentinel, redirecting the river’s flow with precision. The submerged intake structure, equipped with orifices and trash passages, ensures a smooth transition of water into the system, minimizing sedimentation and optimizing efficiency.
Innovative Gravel Trap and Settling Basin
A rectangular hopper-type gravel trap, designed for continuous flushing, showcases the project’s commitment to sediment management. The settling basin, with its particle trap efficiency exceeding 90%, is a key component in maintaining water quality and minimizing environmental impact.
Tunneling Through the Mountains
The headrace tunnel, stretching an impressive 2448 meters with an inverted D shape, exemplifies the engineering prowess required to navigate the challenging topography. As the water traverses the tunnel, it gains potential energy, setting the stage for efficient electricity generation.
Power Generation Hub
The semi-surface powerhouse, measuring 45 meters by 16 meters, houses three vertical axis Francis turbines, each with a capacity of 12.9 MW. This configuration ensures a harmonious blend of power generation and environmental sustainability.
Transmission to Empower
The generated power is transmitted through a 132 kV single-circuit transmission line, spanning 29 kilometers. This infrastructure is the lifeline that connects the project to the broader electricity grid, ensuring the energy reaches communities far and wide.
Financial Viability and Future Impact
With a benefit-cost ratio of 1.20, an internal rate of return of 12.87%, and a commitment to operationalize by July 26, 2023, the Tamor Khola-5 Hydropower Project is not just an engineering marvel but a financially sound investment in Nepal’s energy future. The project’s net present value and cost per MW underscore its economic viability.
Sustainable Development in Action
As Tamor Khola-5 Hydropower Project progresses, it stands as a beacon of sustainable development. Beyond the numbers and engineering feats, the project exemplifies the delicate dance between progress and environmental responsibility. It’s a testament to Nepal’s commitment to harnessing its abundant natural resources for the benefit of its people and the generations to come.