Wind and mini-hydraulic energy potential in the lower basins of the rivers of the mountain ranges, given their topology

Abstract

This document intends to auscultate the potential wind and mini-hydraulic energy in the lower basins of the rivers of the mountain ranges; given its topology, taking as an example the lower basin of the Ocoña river in Arequipa Peru, characterized by the canyoning of the mountain range, from the coast (0 masl) to the highlands (4,500 masl), and by the important flow hydraulic when descending from the highlands to the Pacific Ocean, in an area of 16,045 km2. For this, the wind speed has been recorded in anemometers placed at 6, 12, and 18 m above the surface. The section of the river and its speed have also been determined, the height of the river's water level has been recorded; all with an hourly periodicity. With this information we have determined the potential for wind and mini-hydro energy in this characteristic place. Wind speeds in the order of 10 m/s have been obtained, with a persistence of 8 h a day. As for the mini-hydraulic, with a minimum flow of 50 m3/s there is a persistence greater than 90 %. In conclusion, the potential of wind, mini-hydro, and combined energy of the place is sufficient to satisfy various energy demands, from very small to very large.

Keywords

• Topology
• Bathymetry
• Anemometer
• Current meter
• Wind rose
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