Introduction to Hydro Power Plant

Introduction to Hydro Power Plant

A hydro power plant has an advantage in that it does not need fuels for its operation as compared with oil or thermal power plants. However, there are no differences between both types of plants in that appropriate operation and maintenance (O&M) are essential for their long-term operation. They can be operated for long periods if its facilities are properly operated and maintained. We should effectively utilize hydro power because aside from being an indigenous energy resource, it is also renewable.

We have to operate and maintain micro-hydro power plants with strict compliance to the operation and maintenance manuals. In general, operators of micro-hydro power plants should understand the following:

（１）Operators must efficiently conduct operation and maintenance of a plant complying with the work plans, rules and regulations.

（２）Operators must familiarize themselves with all the plant components and their respective performance or corrective and preventive functions. Furthermore, they must also be aware of measures against various accidents for prompt recovery.

（３）Operators must always check conditions of facilities and equipment. When they find some troubles or accidents, they must inform a person in charge and try to remedy the situation.

（４）Operators must try to prevent any accidents. For this purpose, they should repair or improve facilities preventively as necessary. Operation and maintenance manuals should basically be prepared for each plant

individually before the beginning of operation. The following are general manuals of

operation and maintenance for micro-hydro power plants.