ENHANCING THE EFFICIENCY OF HYDROELECTRIC TURBINES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Abstract

Hydroelectric power is one of the most sustainable and widely adopted renewable energy sources. The efficiency of turbines, which are central to energy conversion in hydroelectric plants, significantly influences the overall energy output. This study investigates the key factors affecting turbine performance, such as water flow, pressure head, temperature, and turbine design. Using fundamental hydroelectric energy equations, we analyze and compare the performance of three common turbine types: Francis, Pelton, and Kaplan. Our findings indicate that Pelton turbines exhibit the highest energy efficiency, followed by Kaplan turbines, with Francis turbines displaying the lowest energy output under the specified conditions. Moreover, the study highlights the impact of water temperature on turbine performance, demonstrating that temperature variations lead to efficiency losses. These insights are vital for optimizing turbine selection and operational strategies in hydroelectric plants, thereby maximizing energy production.