What is run of the river system?

Question

What is run of the river system?

Answer 1

They are a green way of generating energy

Run-of-River system projects are dramatically different in design, appearance and impact from conventional hydroelectric projects. There are two main differences. First, there is no water storage other than the limited amount required to submerge the intake pipe. Second, there is no alteration of downstream flows, since all diverted water is returned to the stream below the powerhouse.

A typical run-of-river project consists of the following: an intake structure at which water is diverted, a pipeline (penstock) through which it travels downhill, a small powerhouse, and a tailrace where the water is returned to the stream above — or as close a possible to — a barrier to fish movement.

Potential run-of-river sites must offer a significant gradient (elevation drop) and sufficient annual precipitation rates. Glacial ice fields offer a unique form of storage capacity and, where available, can further enhance project viability. Potential sites tend to exist at high altitudes, characterized by features such as fast flows, steep canyons, waterfalls and other natural barriers. These features reduce the suitability of such sites for potentially competing land uses such as recreation and, most importantly, limit fish presence and diversity.

British Columbia is fortunate to have a large number of such sites, particularly in the coastal mountain ranges.

Run-of-river projects can be developed on appropriate sites with little if any negative impact on either aquatic or terrestrial habitat.

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