An Investigation of the Hydro-Power Potential of the Ojirami Dam in Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigates the potentials inherent in the Ojirami dam as a source of hydro-electric energy. To achieve this, a physical observation of some physical features of the dam site and the rainfall catchment area of the dam was carried out, and a numerical evaluation of the catchment area evaluated. Data of monthly rainfall for a period of one year (January to December, 2021) was used to evaluate the run-off water using the khosla’s formula TPR 811.4. From the data, a run off coefficient was determined for the catchment area, which was subsequently used to evaluate the run-offs. Hydrograph was plotted for the catchment area and from the hydrograph, a flow duration curve and a mass curve of the flow were plotted. From these graphs, it was possible to ascertain the average discharge at the mouth of the stream where the dam is located. Possible heads of water at the dam’s location were also determined and potential power output calculated. The inference drawn was that the run-off water structure has main roles to play in sustainability of the hydroelectric power potentials inherent in the Ojirami dam to optimize its hydro-power capacity