Assessment of water potential in irrigation scheme infrastructure for integrating micro hydropower. A case study Idete prisons complex in Morogoro, Tanzania.

Abstract

Using the Idete Prisons Complex in Morogoro, Tanzania as a case study, this study evaluates the water potential in an existing irrigation scheme infrastructure for the integration of a micro hydropower plant. The goal of the research is to investigate a sustainable and economical solution to the complex's ongoing problems, such as high electricity costs and frequent power outages from the national grid (TANESCO), which impede daily operations and jeopardize security and service delivery. By utilizing the available water flow within the irrigation system, the study explores the viability of producing clean and dependable electricity through micro hydropower. In order to ascertain flow rates and head two crucial factors for hydropower potential hydrological data were gathered and examined. System design and performance were simulated and optimized using HOMER Pro. The location has enough hydropower potential, according to the final results, to provide output power ranging from 24.33 kW to 29.27 kW. This can greatly offset electricity expenditures and lessen reliance on the unstable grid supply. By offering a reproducible approach for incorporating renewable energy into institutional and rural settings using already-existing water infrastructure, this research advances the energy industry. Additionally, it draws attention to the unrealized potential of micro hydropower as a decentralized energy solution for enhancing resilience and energy availability in Tanzanian public infrastructure.