Comparative analysis of mini hydro turbines for Bumaji Stream, Boki, Cross River State, Nigeria

The study has the major objectives of examining the performance of various mini hydro turbines for the Bumaji Stream in Cross River State. The study was based on the Stream data obtained during peak and lean rainy seasons of the year and the estimated hydroelectric power potentials of the River. The performances, technical and economic feasibility of the sampled hydro turbines was also carried out using RETScreen Renewable Software. The result of the analysis show that the cheapest power was generated by a Cross Flow Turbine which delivered 0.67 MW at $100.8/MWh with an internal rate of return 20.4%, a net present value of $358 a payback period of less than 5 years and a yearly savings of $63,000. However, the Kaplan turbine made more technical sense as it delivers 0.748 MW at $106.2/MWh with an internal rate of return 19.3%, a net present value of $295, a payback period of 5 years and a yearly savings of $52,000.