Nestled in the heart of the enchanting Madi rural municipality in the Kaski District of Gandaki Province, Nepal, the Super Madi Hydroelectric Project (SMHP) stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental responsibility. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to uncover the intricacies of this remarkable venture that is reshaping Nepal’s energy landscape.
Gateway to Sustainability: Location and Accessibility The geographical bounds of the Super Madi Hydroelectric Project span between latitude 28° 19′ 02″ N to 28° 21′ 39″ N and longitude 84° 04′ 45″ E to 84° 08′ 34″ E. Accessible through the scenic route from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Bijaypur Khola-Sabi-Tangtin Village, this location not only adds to the project’s allure but also emphasizes its commitment to harmonizing with the natural surroundings.
The Power of Diversion: Ogee-shaped Weir and Gravel Trap At the heart of SMHP’s ingenuity lies its ability to divert the robust flow of the Madi River. The construction of an ogee-shaped concrete diversion weir, soaring proudly at 1344 m above mean sea level (amsl), showcases the project’s dedication to maximizing the river’s potential. The diverted flow gracefully navigates through a side intake, cleverly passing through a gravel trap that ensures the pristine quality of the water harnessed.
Journey through Tunnels: Settling Basins and Headrace Tunnel The water’s journey doesn’t end there; it continues its course through the project’s intricate system. Two inlet tunnels, each measuring 4.2 m X 4.2 m, guide the design discharge to two separate chambers of the underground settling basin. From these basins, the flow is channeled through a 5.34 km headrace tunnel, tracing the left bank of the Madi River. This architectural marvel showcases a perfect blend of engineering precision and environmental consciousness.
The Powerhouse Symphony: Penstock Pipes and Francis Turbines The heart of SMHP lies within the semi-surface powerhouse, where the design discharge is conveyed through approximately 1636 m long penstock pipes. Here, three powerful Francis turbines come to life, converting the river’s energy into electricity. This symphony of technology and nature highlights the project’s dedication to sustainable power generation.
Completing the Cycle: Tailrace Culvert and Transmission Lines As the water completes its energy-generating journey, a 195 m long tailrace culvert guides it back to the Madi River, seamlessly closing the ecological loop. Beside the powerhouse stand three transformers, elevating the generated voltage from 11 kV to 132 kV. The harnessed power then embarks on a new journey, evacuated through 132 kV transmission lines, connecting the Super Madi Hydroelectric Project to the broader grid.
Connecting Communities: Outdoor Switchyard and Transmission Line An outdoor switchyard, strategically positioned on the southern side of the powerhouse, serves as the nexus connecting the project to the grid. A single-circuit 132 kV transmission line, extending from the Super Madi Hydroelectric Project’s switchyard, weaves its way to the Lekhnath Substation, becoming the lifeline through which the generated power enriches communities.
In essence, the Super Madi Hydroelectric Project is not merely a technological marvel; it’s a testament to the symbiotic relationship between human innovation and the bountiful offerings of nature. As the turbines hum with life and the transmission lines pulse with energy, SMHP emerges not just as a powerhouse but as a beacon of sustainable progress, echoing through the valleys of Nepal.