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Description
The aim of the project is to assess the potential of hydropower as a renewable energy source by examining all aspects - political, legal, regulatory, technical and economic, as well as the qualifications and readiness of hydropower experts to ensure the implementation of the expected activities. The main objective of the project proposal is to create a database including an assessment of the catchment areas and to document the existing technical characteristics of the hydropower facilities. The study will highlight the production potential, costs and technical challenges associated with the implementation of tools for using the hydropower resource. In addition, the need to initiate changes to facilitate the enhancement of the potential of existing small hydropower plants in water supply systems will be analyzed. The project information will be used to encourage operators of water supply schemes to apply for EEA grant assistance to realize some of their energy production opportunities.
Summary of project results
The aim of the project is to assess the potential of hydropower as a renewable energy source by studying all aspects - political, legal, regulatory, technical and economic, as well as the qualification and readiness of hydropower experts to ensure the implementation of the planned activities. The main objective of the project proposal is to create a database, including an assessment of the watershed areas and documenting the existing technical characteristics of the hydropower facilities. The study will highlight the production potential, costs and technical challenges related to the implementation of instruments for the use of the hydropower resource. In addition, the need to initiate changes that would facilitate the increase of the potential of existing small hydropower plants in water supply systems will be analyzed. The information from the project will be used to encourage operators of water supply schemes to apply for EEA grant assistance to realize some of the energy production opportunities.
The following activities were implemented:
1.study of all aspects - political, legal, regulatory, technical and economic;
2.increase the expertise and awareness of hydropower experts on applicable RES technologies in the water supply sector;
3.create a database including an assessment of the watershed areas;
4.documentation of the existing technical characteristics of hydropower facilities;
5.study of the production potential, costs and technical challenges related to the implementation of instruments for the use of hydropower resources;
6.analysis of the need to initiate changes that would facilitate the increase in the potential of existing small hydroelectric power plants in water supply systems.
As a result of the implemented activities, the available data on the hydropower potential in Bulgaria is updated and operators of water supply schemes are encouraged to apply for EEA grant assistance to realize some of the energy production opportunities. In addition, amendments to the regulatory framework will be proposed.
Summary of bilateral results
The main role of the partner was to provide its long-standing experience in the field of utilizing hydropower potential in existing water supply systems and in increasing the potential of existing small hydroelectric power plants in water supply systems, through analyses and expert assistance.