Microcomputer Control for a Small Hydroelectric Peaking Plant

by John D. Lawrence, Acres Int Corp, Buffalo, NY, USA,
George V. Cotroneo, Acres Int Corp, Buffalo, NY, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulics and Hydrology in the Small Computer Age

Abstract:

Peaking plants pose a special problem for control. The new facilities are generally a very small part of a large system. Determination of the parameters necessary to run the plant to best advantage can be difficult for system operators. Normally, the operational philosophy of a peaking plant is to balance the inflows and outflows on a periodic basis, keeping the headwater level within a prescribed range. Microcomputers can aid in the control of unit start times, run times, and loading to maximize the desired output from the available water resource. This paper describes the use of a microcomputer for generation control at the North Hartland Dam Project, which is a daily peaking plant currently nearing completion in Vermont.

Subject Headings: Power plants | Hydro power | Computing in civil engineering | Project management | Electric power | Water resources | Outflow | Vermont | United States

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