Evaluating the engineering design and computational analysis: a case study of Machai micro-hydropower plant, Mardan, Pakistan

Hydroelectric power generation is one of the most significant and dependable renewable energy sources for Pakistan. With a few minor adjustments and a range of design options, micro hydropower plants may be built on an existing canal to restore or boost irrigation water delivery and generate electricity by choosing the appropriate turbine. The design of the Machai hydropower plant was examined in this study using the Manning equation to establish the power canal's design specifications. The Manning roughness coefficient is calculated to find the section factor. Hydraulic mean depth, top width, height, area, and channel width may all be determined using the section factor. Based on the outcomes of the TURBNPRO program, the Kaplan turbine installed in the powerhouse was selected. To evaluate the stability of embankments, SLIDE software was employed. The study concludes that micro-hydropower is a technically viable and environmentally friendly method of producing electricity in remote areas. Particularly for isolated off-grid locations, Machai and other micro-hydropower devices provide a cost-effective and ecologically friendly energy alternative. Compared to diesel generators or coal-fired power plants, micro-hydropower is a more environmentally beneficial choice since it emits no greenhouse gases when in operation.