The analysis of the hydropower potential in Podkarpackie Voivodship

Abstract

The paper presents an analysis of the use and potential of hydropower in Podkarpackie (Subcarpathian) Voivodship. The current usage of hydropower in the Region is presented, divided for range of generated power, geographical location and given rivers. Existing and planned artificial water reservoirs are taken into consideration in frame of hydropower development in the Region. Selected case studies related to varied hydropower plants are discussed. Problems connected with development of the hydropower were identified and considered. For each county in the Region theoretical available power possible to install in the main rivers was indicated, taking into account environmental aspects, technical problems with connection to the electrical grid and overall possibility of the facility installation. For each county communities with the best favorable situation are indicated. It is discussed the analysis of the evaluation of the use of hydropower in Podkarpackie Voivodship and provided information on planned and considered investments in hydropower plants. In addition, an analysis of the energy potential of the main rivers of the Podkarpackie Region have been procced to indicating the most favorable areas for location of hydropower plants. Moreover, given the environmental conditions, an analysis of the power estimation of the hydropower plants were made.