59. Mini-Micro Hydel Power Generation in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh – A Case Study

Mini, micro hydel power development is one of the important area for research and development. Small, mini, micro hydro power stations are conceptually different from the major hydro power station, because they are small in capacity and are decentralized, so where ever the situation is favourable, they can be constructed. Common sites are falls from mountains, irrigation canal drops, small rivers etc. These power station are gaining wide importance now-a-days specially in the Indian conditions, as we are having number of such sites. So a comprehensive study and analysis of these power stations is a timely need, including other aspects like reliability, economical operation, maintenance and protection, etc. Both stand-alone and grid connected power stations, are in use and proposed. Stand-alone systems are particularly useful for remote/isolated villages while grid connected power stations are useful in adjusting the peak demand of the system.