Output Increase From Existing Hydroelectric Plants

The potential for increasing the energy output of existing hydroelectric plants was investigated on a national scale. Analysis was performed on 1,288 sites (the complete inventory) for increases through enlarging powerhouses, modifying or replacing turbines and generators, and improving water handling works. The potential energy increase was found to be about 11% requiring an increase of 22% in installed capacity. Virtually all the increase was found to be from enlargement of existing powerhouses (adding additional units).