A sustainable hydropower RETScreen simulation study of river flow and sediment effects

The urgency to address climate change and ensure energy security has positioned renewable energy as a crucial solution. In Malaysia, a country with abundant water resources and a tropical climate, hydropower is gaining traction as the nation diversifies its energy sources to reduce fossil fuel dependency. This study investigates the relationships between hydropower electrical components, specifically turbines, and river flow characteristics and silt loads, aiming to enhance hydropower efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. The research examines geographical and climatic conditions favorable for hydropower generation, focusing on key river basins and existing plants. In particular, the Slim River Hydropower Project in Perak, employing a run-of-river approach, is selected for its sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Using data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission and Suspended Sediment Concentration studies, alongside simulations conducted with RETScreen software, this paper assesses turbine efficiency and performance. The study shows that peak turbine efficiency can reach 93.3% under optimal flow conditions and that stable daily flow rates ensure reliable power generation.