Reconnaissance study to identify micro hydro potential sites in Malaysia

Abstract

Combinations of highland areas with huge river networks promise Malaysia with a lot of hydro power potential. To date Malaysia had utilized this potential mainly in the range of large and mini hydropower but very few in the micro hydro range. Micro hydro refers to power generation in the range of 5kW to 100kW. Micro hydro can provide alternative renewable energy sources especially in areas with small rivers or streams flowing. In identifying the micro hydro potential sites, reconnaissance study is normally conducted. It is a preliminary study to identify possible micro hydropower potential sites. This paper presents the results of a reconnaissance study carried out to identify the micro hydro potential sites in Malaysia. The reconnaissance study was conducted with data from the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia, (JUPEM) and Metrological Department Malaysia. All the identified streams are located in areas which are accessible and/or showed evidence of settlements. Only streams with high head i.e. above 50m were considered in this study. From the reconnaissance study, a total of 149 sites with estimated micro hydro potential of 28.9MW were identified. However, the energy demand for micro hydro was found not significant as most areas in Malaysia are electrified. Still, micro hydro generation may serve as alternative renewable energy source in future amid rising electricity cost. © EuroJournals Publishing, Inc. 2010.