Abstract:
Hydro-power development is important for Sri Lanka not simply because it is a
means of energy generation but also because it utilizes a resource which does not
create environmental hazards in the process of energy conversion. The viability
of Hydro-power develpment projects mostly depend on the extractable energy
from such projects, and hence on the streamflow available for tapping.
Knowledge of available streamflow also enables the developer to assess the
degree of incorporating requisite environmental impact mitigatory measures in
situations where such impact assessments involve significant subjectivity.
The work presented contain the estimation of streamflow at Bopath Ella
extrapolating streamflow data in an adjacent watershed. Data checking and filling
based on the comparison of daily and monthly, rainfall and streamflow
characteristics was carried out in cases where the missing data duration was of
short length. The instances where data were missing for significant continuous
durations, filling was carriedout using a conceptual mathematical model
developed for the particular catchment. Catchment information such as
topography, land use and rainfall quantity were used to carryout the data
extrapolation and subsequent computations of available energy.
