Proposed Methodology for the Feasibility Study of Hydroelectricity Generation at Gwaigwaye Reservoir in Funtua, Katsina State

Access to electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa is very poor and has impeded socioeconomic development and growth of African nations and communities. Gwaigwaye Water Reservoir is one of the two water sources in Funtua mainly used for irrigation and potable water supply. This study examines the feasibility of establishing a hydroelectricity generation plant using the Gwaigwaye water reservoir scheme as an effort to increase access to electricity in the Funtua town and environs, thereby alleviating power poverty and improving the standard of living in the area. The research seeks answers to design questions such as the capacity of Gwaigwaye Reservoir, the optimum intake location, the obtainable head, the discharge rate, and the generation potential for the proposed hydroelectricity project. Being a proposal, only basic and theoretical facts were collected, analyzed, and presented in this work. Topographical data obtained with the use of Google Earth tool was extrapolated to determine the reservoir surface area. Initial design data of the dam and data obtained during preliminary site visits were used. Hypothetical results obtained showed Gwaigwaye Reservoir has the potential to produce about 2 MW of electricity. This would be tested against applicable site conditions to determine optimum results and layout.