HomeMy WebLinkAboutRiver In Stream Energy Conversion AK SiteSurvey EPRI 03-2008
River In-Stream Energy Conversion (RISEC)
Characterization of Alaska Sites
Yukon at Pilot Station
Tanana at Manley Hot
Springs
Yukon at Eagle
Tanana at Whitestone
Taku at Juneau
Kvichak at
Igiugig
Project: Alaska RISEC Feasibility Study
Phase: Site Assessment
Report: EPRI - RP- 003-Alaska
Author: Mirko Previsic
Co-author Roger Bedard
Date: February 29, 2008
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
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This document was prepared by the organizations named below as an account of
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Organization(s) that prepared this document:
Electric Power Research Institute
re vision consulting LLC
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table of Contents
1. Introduction and Summary ..........................................................................................................4
2. Taku River at Juneau ...................................................................................................................8
2.1. Site Description....................................................................................................................8
2.2. Electrical Interconnection ..................................................................................................10
2.3. Other Considerations .........................................................................................................10
2.4. Photographs........................................................................................................................12
2.5. Site Energy Data ................................................................................................................13
3. Tanana River at Manley Hot Springs.........................................................................................20
3.1. Site Description..................................................................................................................20
3.2. Electrical Interconnection ..................................................................................................21
3.3. Other Considerations .........................................................................................................22
3.4. Photographs........................................................................................................................23
3.5. River Energy Resource ......................................................................................................23
4. Tanana River at Whitestone .......................................................................................................24
4.1. Site Description..................................................................................................................24
4.2. Electrical Interconnections.................................................................................................27
4.3. Other Considerations .........................................................................................................28
4.4. Photographs........................................................................................................................29
4.5. Flow Velocity.....................................................................................................................30
5. Yukon River at Eagle .................................................................................................................37
.................................................................................................................375.1 Site Description
......................................................................................................395.2 Electrical Interconnect
........................................................................................................395.3 Other Considerations
.......................................................................................................................395.4 Photographs
....................................................................................................................415.5 Flow Velocity
6. Yukon River at Pilot Station ......................................................................................................47
6.1. Site Description..................................................................................................................47
..................................................................................................486.3.Electrical Interconnection
6.4. Other Considerations .........................................................................................................49
........................................................................................................................526.5. Photographs
6.5. Flow Velocity.....................................................................................................................53
7. Kvichak River at Igiugig ............................................................................................................59
7.1. Site Description..................................................................................................................59
7.2. Electrical Interconnection ..................................................................................................61
7.3. Other Considerations .........................................................................................................61
7.4. Photographs........................................................................................................................65
7.5. Flow Velocity.....................................................................................................................65
8. References ..................................................................................................................................72
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
List of Figures
Figure 1 - Location of selected sites ........................................................................................................5
Figure 2: Location Overview Map...........................................................................................................8
Figure 4: Reach A. Looking downstream at Canyon Island ..................................................................12
Figure 5:Tulsequah Glacier in Canada, source of Taku River jokulhlaups ...........................................13
Figure 6: USGS Measurement Cross Section, velocity at a discharge rate of 63,900 ft^3/s.................14
Figure 7: USGS Measurement Cross Section, showing water depth at a discharge rate of 63,900 ft^3/s
................................................................................................................................................................15
Figure 8: Relationship between velocity and Discharge Rate ...............................................................15
Figure 9: Velocity Distribution at Site ...................................................................................................16
Figure 10: Monthly Average Discharge Rates.......................................................................................18
Figure 11: Monthly Velocities at Site ....................................................................................................18
Figure 12: Monthly Power Densities at Site ..........................................................................................19
Figure 13: Monthly Gage Height ...........................................................................................................19
Figure 14: Location overview map ........................................................................................................20
Figure 15: Site Overview Map...............................................................................................................21
Figure 16: Fishwheel at the frozen Tanana River near Manley Hot Springs.........................................23
Figure 17: Whitestone Community on the Tanana River ......................................................................24
Figure 18: Road Network near Big Delta ..............................................................................................25
Figure 19: Big Delta Overview Map .....................................................................................................25
Figure 20: Site Overview .......................................................................................................................26
Figure 21: Deployment Site of Interest ..................................................................................................26
Figure 22: Grid Interconnection Locations ............................................................................................27
Figure 23: TransAlaska Pipeline crossing the Tanana River at BigDelta Junction ...............................29
Figure 24: Richardson Highway crossing the Tanana River .................................................................29
Figure 25: View onto the Tanana River.................................................................................................30
Figure 26: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 41,200ft3/s.............................32
Figure 27: USGS cross-section showing water depth at a discharge rate of 41,200ft3/s .......................32
Figure 28: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate ............................................................33
Figure 29: Velocity Distribution at Site .................................................................................................33
Figure 30: Monthly Average Discharge Rates.......................................................................................35
Figure 31: Monthly Velocities at Site ....................................................................................................35
Figure 32: Monthly Power Densities at Site ..........................................................................................36
Figure 33: Overview map ......................................................................................................................37
Figure 34: Google earth view onto airstrip and village .........................................................................38
Figure 35: View onto village and Deer island .......................................................................................38
Figure 36: View onto Yukon River at Eagle .........................................................................................39
Figure 37: Ice jamb during spring breakup. View upstream from Eagle..............................................40
Figure 38: Ice jamb during spring breakup. View downstream from Eagle.........................................40
Figure 39: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 183,000ft3/s...........................42
Figure 40: USGS cross-section showing water depth at a discharge rate of 183,000ft3/s .....................42
Figure 41: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate ............................................................43
Figure 42: Velocity Distribution at Site .................................................................................................43
Figure 43: Monthly Average Discharge Rates.......................................................................................45
Figure 44: Monthly Velocities at Site ....................................................................................................45
Figure 45: Monthly Average Power Densities at Site ...........................................................................46
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 46: Monthly Gage Height ...........................................................................................................46
Figure 47: Pilot Station on the Yukon River .........................................................................................47
Figure 48: Yukon River .........................................................................................................................52
Figure 49: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 219,000ft3/s...........................54
Figure 50: USGS cross-section showing water at a discharge rate of 219,000ft3/s...............................54
Figure 51: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate ............................................................55
Figure 52: Velocity Distribution at Site .................................................................................................55
Figure 53: Monthly Average Discharge Rates.......................................................................................57
Figure 54: Monthly Velocities at Site ....................................................................................................57
Figure 55: Monthly Power Densities at Site ..........................................................................................58
Figure 56: Monthly Gage Height ...........................................................................................................58
Figure 57: Location overview map ........................................................................................................60
Figure 58: Water velocity readings at proposed site: June 20th 2007 ...................................................60
Figure 59: Landing strip at Igiugig ........................................................................................................65
Figure 60: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 17,200ft3/s.............................66
Figure 61: USGS cross-section showing water depth at a discharge rate of 17,200ft3/s .......................67
Figure 62: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate ............................................................67
Figure 63: Velocity Distribution at Site .................................................................................................68
Figure 64: Monthly Average Discharge Rates.......................................................................................70
Figure 65: Monthly Velocities at Site ....................................................................................................70
Figure 66: Monthly Power Densities at Site ..........................................................................................71
List of Tables
Table 1: Site data summaries ...................................................................................................................6
Table 2: Site Resource Overview ............................................................................................................6
Table 3: USGS station summary............................................................................................................13
Table 4: Site Resource Summary...........................................................................................................14
Table 5: Velocity Distribution Table at Site ..........................................................................................17
Table 6: Whitestone Community Monthly Load Patterns .....................................................................27
Table 7: USGS station Summary ...........................................................................................................31
Table 8: Resource Data Overview .........................................................................................................31
Table 9: Velocity Distribution Table at Site ..........................................................................................34
Table 10: USGS station summary..........................................................................................................41
Table 11: Resource Data Overview .......................................................................................................41
Table 12: Velocity Distribution Table at Site ........................................................................................44
Table 13: Load Summary.......................................................................................................................48
Table 14: Population Summary .............................................................................................................49
Table 15: Historical ice breakup dates ...................................................................................................50
Table 16: USGS station summary..........................................................................................................53
Table 17: Resource Data Overview .......................................................................................................53
Table 18: Velocity Distribution Table at Site ........................................................................................56
Table 19: USGS Station Summary ........................................................................................................65
Table 20: Resource Data Overview .......................................................................................................66
Table 21: Velocity Distribution Table at Site ........................................................................................69
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
1. Introduction and Summary
The EPRI North American River In-Stream Energy Conversion (RISEC) Power Program is
investigating the feasibility of river current power to provide efficient, reliable, environmentally
friendly and cost-effective electrical energy. This project is being conducted by the Electric Power
Research Institute (EPRI) under the sponsorship of the Alaska Energy Authority, Chugach Electric
and Anchorage Municipal and Light.
This document describes the results of the River In-Stream Energy Conversion (RISEC) site
characterization for Alaska. This study’s primary focus is on understanding the velocity profiles at
various locations, as they have the most significant impact on energy extraction and resulting cost of
electricity. In order to accomplish this, EPRI worked very closely with USGS and local contacts
through the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA). A substantial amount of local knowledge of site
attributes was provided by local contacts.
EPRI was able to obtain information on six sites. The six sites characterized are located near USGS
stations as shown below. The locations of the six sites are illustrated in Figure 1.
1. Taku River near Juneau and near Canadian border (USGS Station ID 15041200)
2. Tanana River at Manley Hot Springs (USGS Station ID 15515500, 60 miles upstream)
3. Tanana River at Whitestone Community (USGS Station ID 15478000 )
4. Yukon River at Eagle ((USGS Station ID 15356000)
5. Yukon River at Pilot Station (USGS Station ID 15565447)
6. Kvichak River at Igiugig (USGS Station ID 15300500)
The primary criterion for an in-stream river energy site is the strength of the current. While other
characterization criteria may prove a site to be unsuitable for RISEC, a site without currents has no
development potential. In order to establish a frequency distribution of velocities at the site suitable for
subsequent evaluation of RISEC device performance, first a relationship between discharge rate and
velocity was established using USGS discharge calibration data. That relationship function was then
applied to the full data of historical daily discharge rates. It is important to understand that the
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
velocity profiles and associated power densities are only valid for the transect used by the USGS to
calibrate the flow data and used in this study to calibrate the velocity data.
From the strength and distribution of current velocities, it is possible to determine the kinetic power
density (kW/m2) for a site. The cost of energy (COE) for a site is closely correlated to power density,
with sites of higher power density showing a lower COE.
The total in-stream resource is given by multiplying the kinetic power density (kW/m2) in a channel by
its cross-sectional area (m2). This procedure is described in Reference 2.
Tanana R at
Manley Hot
Springs
Yukon R at
Pilot Station
Yukon R at Eagle
Tanana R at
Whitestone
Kvichak R at
Iguigig
Taku R near Juneau
Figure 1 - Location of selected sites
All six locations are in close proximity to small villages that typically have power needs of a few
hundred kW. The following table provides an overview of the generic ‘suitability’ site attributes for
each of the six sites, as well as a velocity data summary. All sites except Manley Hot Springs has a
USGS close to the site; for Manley Springs, the closest USGS station is 60 miles upstream at Nenana.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 1: Site data summaries
Yukon @
Pilot
Yukon @
Eagle
Tanana @
Nenana (1)
Tanana @
Whitestone
Taku @
Juneau
Kvichak @
Iguigig
USGS discharge data (years) 1975 to
Present
1950 to
Present
1962 to
Present
1949 to
1952
1987 to
Present
1967 to
1987
Ice Freeze Over October October Does not
Freeze
Does not
Freeze
January Does not
Freeze
Ice Breakup April/May April/May April/May April/May March None
Distance to electrical interconnection 1.5 Miles < 1Mile < 1Mile < 1 Mile 24 Miles < 1 Mile
1) Tanana is the closest USGS station 60 miles upstream of Manley Hot Springs
The six sites under investigation cover a wide spectrum of potential deployment sites in terms of size,
power density, and physical dimensions. The following table summarizes key resource-attributes of
the six sites under investigation. Detailed background on each of these sites can be found in
subsequent chapters.
Table 2: Site Resource Overview
Yukon @ Yukon @ Tanana @ Tanana @ Taku @ Kvichak @
Velocities Unit Pilot Eagle Nenana (1)Big Delta Juneau Iguigig
Average Velocity m/s 0.49 1.18 0.92 0.98 0.92 1.41
Average Mid-Channel Velocity m/s 0.64 1.54 1.19 1.28 1.20 1.84
Power
X-Section Average Power Density kW /m^2 0.15 1.45 0.80 0.67 0.53 1.48
Mid-Stream Average Power Density kW /m^2 0.32 3.20 1.75 1.48 1.16 3.24
Average Total Kinetic Power kW 1,675 4,601 694 762 482 719
Dimensions (During Typical Discharge Conditions)
Discharge Rate for Referenced Dimensions m^3/s 6,201 5,182 1,724 1,167 1,809 487
Cross-Section m^2 11,393 3,162 870 1,132 911 365
W idth m 808 465 256 169 207 152
Average Depth m 14.10 6.80 3.40 6.70 4.40 2.40
Deepest Point m 18.60 9.70 4.20 11.90 5.60 3.70
Discharge
Average m^3/s 3,989 2,363 691 421 388 507
Maximum m^3/s 33,414 15,433 5,182 1,767 3,200 1,277
Minimum m^3/s 204 204 113 105 20 181 1) Tanana is the closest USGS station 60 miles upstream of Manley Hot Springs
A key question that remains to be answered is what fraction of the kinetic power or energy of this
resource may be extracted by in-stream turbines. There are a number of issues which limit in-stream
extraction: (1) changes to river fluid flow, (2) interconnection limits, and (3) the density of turbines
which can be physically placed within a constricted channel. As a result, the extractable in-stream
resource is as much a function of site-specific issues as the kinetic power present in a flow.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
This report contains units in both English and SI units. The conversion factors are:
English to SI units SI to English units
Area
1 ft2 = 0.0929 m2 1 m2 = 10.76 ft2
Length
1 ft = 0.3048 m
1 mile = km
1 m = 3.281 ft
1 km = mile
Velocity
1 ft/sec = 0.3048 m/sec | 1 m/sec = 3.281 ft/sec
Mass and Density
1 lb = 0.4536 kg
1 lb/ft3 = 0.06234 kg/m3
1 kg = 2.2046 lb
1 kg/m3 = 16.02 lb/ft3
Discharge Rate
1 ft3 /sec = 0.02832 m3 /sec 1 m3 /sec = 35.31 ft3 /sec
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
2. Taku River at Juneau
2.1. Site Description
The Taku River runs from British Columbia, Canada, to the northwestern coast of North America, at
Juneau, Alaska. The Taku River starts in British Columbia, Canada, and flows generally southwest,
emptying into Stephens Passage near Juneau, Alaska. The river on the U.S. side of the border is
approximately 36 miles long. There is a USGS gauging station located at Canyon Island,
approximately 3 miles from the U.S./Canadian border (see figure 2).
Measurement Station: Taku River
near Juneau
USGS Station ID: 15041200
Discharge data for years: 1987 - Today
Juneau
Figure 2: Location Overview Map
For the purposes of this report, we are interested in the portion of the river extending from the border
to Canyon Island (about 3 miles), where the river is relatively narrow and deep: 150 to 300 yards wide
and 15 to 20 feet deep. The ovals in Figure 3 indicate the area of interest. The channel is well-defined
in this reach.
The Canyon Island area is the best site on the Taku River for a RISEC system. It has the best velocity
regime and river bed. Unfortunately, it is 24 miles to the nearest interconnection point to the electrical
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
system. The low flows in the winter and debris-loading during flood events also make this site more
problematic.
USGS station
1.5 miles
upstream from
Wright River
Figure 3: Location Map
Canyon
Island
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
2.2. Electrical Interconnection
Juneau is an isolated electrical system. All electric power generation, transmission and distribution is
provided by the local utility, Alaska Electric Light and Power (AEL&P). AEL&P has about 84 MW of
installed hydro capacity and another 84 MW of diesel-fired backup generation. As AEL&P’s base load
generation is entirely hydro, there is some energy storage in the reservoirs.
AEL&P operates six power plants, four on the road system and two remote plants. One of the remote
plants, the Annex Creek hydro plant, is located on the Taku River, approximately 28 miles from the
border. Transmission voltage for the Annex Creek system is 23 kV. The system peak in the winter is
70 MW. Summer peaks are under 60 MW.
2.3. Other Considerations
Population and Census Data
Juneau has a population of around 32,000 people. Summer population is probably slightly higher due
to temporary jobs in the tourist industry. The primary employer is state government. Tourist activity is
high, with over a million tourists visiting Juneau from May through September, mostly on cruise ships.
Local Infrastructure
Juneau possesses all the necessary infrastructures to support a RISEC system. There is no overland
access to Juneau. Everything arrives by boat or by plane.
River Bed
Based on discussions with local residents, the river bed near Canyon Island is gravelly. It becomes
sandy for a few miles downstream, and is silty for the remainder of the river.
Ice
The river typically freezes over in January down to Taku Point. Ice thickness is usually around 2 feet.
There is not a well defined breakup, as in rivers further north, but the ice gets slushy and eventually
melts sometime in March. Residents report that at times, the slush extends through the water column
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
to the bottom of the river. Peak runoff is typically in early June. The Taku River does experience
jokulhlaups, or glacial outburst floods, twice a year. During these events water from glacially
impounded lakes break out from the Tulsquah Glacier and produce a large flood on the river. (See
photo 2) These floods last from three to five days. The first often occurs in June or July, and the
second in August or September. During these events there is a sharp rise in water level and a great deal
of debris in the water.
Water Clarity/Suspended Sediments
Several glaciers feed into the Taku River. Consequently there is significant silt in the river. Residents
report that during the spring runoff there is also a significant amount of debris, brush and logs, in the
river; so much, in fact, that it was assumed that an in-stream machine would have to be removed from
the river during the spring flood. It was also reported that a significant amount of debris washes down
the river during the glacial outburst floods each season.
Competing Uses of River-space
Boating in the river is primarily recreational, with some landing craft (three foot draft) traffic. There
are numerous cabins along the river. There are a few fish net sites and fish wheels at Canyon Island.
Development of a gold mine is being considered on the Canadian side of the border. If this is
developed there may be barge traffic up and down the river.
Environmental Considerations
All five species of Pacific salmon run up the Taku River; these runs are important both commercially
and environmentally. The river is also the natural habitat of bald eagles. In addition, subsistence and
personal use fishing must be taken into consideration prior to development in and near the river
Unique Opportunities
The hydro based electrical system could provide storage of energy during high river flows. Juneau’s
infrastructure is well-developed and could easily support such an installation.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
2.4. Photographs
The following photographs were taken in June 2007.
Canyon
Island
Figure 4: Reach A. Looking downstream at Canyon Island
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 5:Tulsequah Glacier in Canada, source of Taku River jokulhlaups
2.5. Site Energy Data
The USGS maintains a stream gauging station on the Taku River near Canyon Island (Station#
15041200 Taku R nr Juneau AK), with 19 years of daily discharge records (1987-2006). That data
was used to establish a data set suitable for evaluating RISEC technology. First a relationship between
discharge rate and velocity was established; that relationship function was then applied to the full data
set to determine the statistical parameters shown below. It is important to understand that the velocity
profiles and associated power densities are only valid for the transect the USGS used to calibrate the
flow data and which we used to calibrate the velocity data.
Table 3: USGS station summary
Station ID: 15041200
City & Borough Of Juneau, Alaska
Hydrologic Unit Code 19010301
Latitude 58°32'19", Longitude 133°42'00"
Drainage area 6,600 square miles
Gage datum 50 feet above sea level
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 4: Site Resource Summary
Velocities Unit
Average Velocity m /s 0.92
Average Mid-Channel Velocity m/s 1.20
Power
X-Section Average Power Density kW /m^2 0.53
Mid-Stream Average Power Density kW /m^2 1.16
Average Total Kinetic Power kW 482
Dimensions (During Typical Discharge Conditions)
Discharge Rate for Referenced Dimensions m^3/s 1,809
Cross-Section m^2 911
W idth m 207
Average Depth m 4.4
Deepest Point m 5.6
Discharge
Average m ^3/s 388
Maximum m^3/s 3,200
Minim um m ^3/s 20
Maximum Stage Differential m4.4
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
0 50 100 150 200 250
Dis tanc e from s hore (m)Velocity (m/s)
Figure 6: USGS Measurement Cross Section, velocity at a discharge rate of 63,900 ft^3/s
14
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
-6.0
-5.0
-4.0
-3.0
-2.0
-1.0
0.0
0 50 100 150 200 250
Dis t anc e from s hore (m)Water Depth (m) Figure 7: USGS Measurement Cross Section, showing water depth at a discharge rate of 63,900 ft^3/s
y = 1.2434Ln(x) - 8.2182
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
0 20000 40000 60000 80000 100000
Discharge Rate (ft^3/s)Velocity (ft/s)Ve locity Fitted Log. (Velocity)
Figure 8: Relationship between velocity and Discharge Rate
15
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%0.050.250.450.650.851.051.251.451.651.852.052.252.452.652.85Velocity (m/s)Frequency
Figure 9: Velocity Distribution at Site
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 5: Velocity Distribution Table at Site
Low Up Mid Dist.Power Dist x Power
(m/s)(m/s)(m/s)%(kW /m^2)
0.0 0.1 0.1 0%0.000 0.000
0.1 0.2 0.2 0%0.002 0.000
0.2 0.3 0.3 0%0.008 0.000
0.3 0.4 0.4 8%0.021 0.002
0.4 0.5 0.5 24%0.046 0.011
0.5 0.6 0.6 10%0.083 0.008
0.6 0.7 0.7 7%0.137 0.009
0.7 0.8 0.8 2%0.211 0.005
0.8 0.9 0.9 6%0.307 0.018
0.9 1.0 1.0 2%0.429 0.011
1.0 1.1 1.1 7%0.579 0.043
1.1 1.2 1.2 6%0.760 0.044
1.2 1.3 1.3 5%0.977 0.048
1.3 1.4 1.4 9%1.230 0.108
1.4 1.5 1.5 12%1.524 0.183
1.5 1.6 1.6 2%1.862 0.041
1.6 1.7 1.7 0%2.246 0.000
1.7 1.8 1.8 0%2.680 0.000
1.8 1.9 1.9 0%3.166 0.000
1.9 2.0 2.0 0%3.707 0.000
2.0 2.1 2.1 0%4.308 0.000
2.1 2.2 2.2 0%4.969 0.000
2.2 2.3 2.3 0%5.695 0.000
2.3 2.4 2.4 0%6.489 0.000
2.4 2.5 2.5 0%7.353 0.000
2.5 2.6 2.6 0%8.291 0.000
2.6 2.7 2.7 0%9.305 0.000
2.7 2.8 2.8 0%10.398 0.000
2.8 2.9 2.9 0%11.575 0.000
Average Power Density (kW/m^2)0.529
Speed Bin
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Monthft^3/s
Figure 10: Monthly Average Discharge Rates
-1.00
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
MonthVelocity (ft/s)Average Vel ft/s
Max Ve l ft/s
Mi n Ve l ft/s
Figure 11: Monthly Velocities at Site
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
-0.50
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
3.00
3.50
4.00
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecM onthAvg Power Density (kW/m^2)Mean Power Density
Ma x P o we r D e n s i t y
Mi n Po we r D e n s i t y
Figure 12: Monthly Power Densities at Site
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep O c t Nov Dec
MonthGage Height (ft)Average Gage ft
Min Gage ft
Max Gage ft
Figure 13: Monthly Gage Height
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
3. Tanana River at Manley Hot Springs
3.1. Site Description
The Tanana River flows to the north of the Wrangell Mountains and the Alaska Range. Fairbanks is
the largest community in the Tanana River Valley. The river levels are influenced by the glacial melt
in the nearby mountains. The river is about 650 miles long and is the largest tributary of the Yukon
River. This is a remote river with only a handful of communities on its waters.
Manley Hot Springs
Whitestone
Community
Nenana
Figure 14: Location overview map
Tanana’s headwaters are located on the north slope of the Wrangell Mountains in southeast Alaska.
The river flows in a northeast direction, then turns to the northwest near the border with the Yukon
Territory, and flows laterally along the northern slope of the Alaska Range, roughly paralleled by the
Alaska Highway. In central Alaska, it emerges into a lowland marsh region known as the Tanana
Valley and passes to the south of the city of Fairbanks and past the village of Ester. In the marsh
regions it is joined by several large tributaries, including the Nenana (near the city of Nenana) and the
Kantishna. The river empties into the Yukon approximately 70 miles (110 km) downriver from the
village of Manley Hot Springs.
Manley Hot Springs is located about 8 km (5 miles) north of the Tanana River on Hot Springs Slough,
at the end of the Elliott Highway, 260 km (162 miles) west of Fairbanks. About 100 people live in
20
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Manley, along with a handful of dog teams. The village has one hotel, a Laundromat with showers, a
gas station, school (UAF rural adult education classes available), post office, museum, well house,
landfill, and grocery store. There are several public campgrounds (one with boat ramp, covered picnic
shelter and playground) near the bridge over Manley Slough, maintained by the Manley Hot Springs
Park Association. There is also a maintained airstrip and hangar (a 45 minute flight from Fairbanks).
Figure 15: Site Overview Map
3.2. Electrical Interconnection
The Manley Hot Springs grid is an isolated grid with a total generator capacity of 250kW. The
generator/storage area is located along the airstrip next to the general store. The distribution voltage in
the village is 4.16kV and 2.4kV three phase. The nearest distribution line is located about one mile
from the river. Three-phase 4.16kV power is available about 2 miles from the river. The average load
is 67kW in summer and 110kW in winter. The utilities contact info follows below.
Manley Electric Utility, 5450 "A" Street
Anchorage, AK 99518-1278
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Phone 907-561-1674
Fax 907-273-5322
3.3. Other Considerations
The total population at Manley Hot Springs is estimated at 78 (2006 estimate). A federally recognized
tribe, Manley Village Council, is located in the community Twenty-three percent of the population is
Alaska Native or part Native. Government employment accounts for about one quarter of the total
adult population. Nine residents hold commercial fishing permits.
Manley Hot Springs has a cold, continental climate. The average daily high is in the upper 50s
(Fahrenheit) in summer, and minimum winter temperatures range from minus 6 to minus 21.
Temperature extremes have been measured from 93 to minus 70. The average annual precipitation is
15 inches, with snowfall of 59.3 inches.
Economy
The local economy is based on a wide variety of small businesses, with many residents relying on
three or four means of income. The Tribe operates the clinic and the Manley Roadhouse is open during
summer months. A barter system thrives between residents. Government employment accounts for
about one quarter of the total adult employment population. Nine residents hold commercial fishing
permits. Gardening, hunting and fishing provide food sources, with salmon and moose as the primary
meat sources.
Transportation
The Elliott Highway is the primary means of accessing Manley Hot Springs. Goods and fuel are
typically delivered by truck. The Highway runs through Manley to the Tanana River Landing, 3 miles
southwest. The Tanana River Landing is used to launch boats for fishing or transportation. Barge
services are sometimes provided during summer months, but there is no docking facility due to severe
erosion. The State-owned 2,875' long by 30' wide gravel runway is available year-round.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Environment
Rivers fed only by glaciers cease to flow during winter and are not viable winter fish habitat. Large
glacial rivers with substantial base flows of groundwater (e.g., Tanana River) are essential fish habitat
and play a critical role for fish in winter. The amount of Oxygen decreases in winter downstream of
open water patches, sometimes reaching minimums that threaten fish survival in March and April just
before breakup. The “sealed” nature of some glacial river and stream reaches in winter also gives rise
for concerns about the ecological effects of waste discharge in these rivers (Reynolds 1997).
3.4. Photographs
Figure 16: Fishwheel at the frozen Tanana River near Manley Hot Springs
3.5. River Energy Resource
There is no USGS Calibration station located near Manley Hot Springs, making it impossible to
estimate flow velocities and associated river in-stream power densities. A calibration station for
Nenana that is located about 60 miles upstream could be viewed as a proxy for discharge rates for
Manley Hot Springs. Table 1 and 2 in Section 1 of this report provides velocity, cross sectional area
and power density data for Nenana at the USGS station. However, local Manley Hot Springs velocity
measurements would need to be carried out to establish a local velocity-to-discharge relationship.
23
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
4. Tanana River at Whitestone
4.1. Site Description
The Whitestone community is located northwest of Delta Junction on the western side of the Delta
River. The community has over 200 residents and is represented by the Whitestone Community
Association (WCA) in its work with State agencies and other organizations. The Department
Commerce and Community Development certified the Whitestone Community Association as an
unincorporated community for purposes of revenue sharing for FY04. The community’s permanent
residents reside in close geographical proximity to one another. The community is connected by a
series of public and private roads. Neither public access nor the right to reside in the community is
restricted. The community is not dependent upon an adjacent community for its existence.
Whitestone
Community
Figure 17: Whitestone Community on the Tanana River
24
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 18: Road Network near Big Delta
USGS
Station
Tanana
River
Whitestone
Town of
Big Delta
Delta
River
Figure 19: Big Delta Overview Map
25
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
GVEA Grid
Richardson
Bridge
Boat Ramp
Boat Ramp
Whitestone
Power Plant
Figure 20: Site Overview
Figure 21: Deployment Site of Interest
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
4.2. Electrical Interconnections
There are two main grid interconnection options. The first option is interconnecting directly to the
isolated grid of the Whitestone community; the second is to connect to the Golden Valley Electric
Association (GVEA) grid. The isolated grid at the Whitestone community has a generator capacity of
390kW. A RISEC farm could be connected to the grid at 480V and 12.47kV. The remote portion of
the GVEA Intertie, operating at 12.47kV, will likely provide for more substantial feed-in capacity, and
could be connected to at Mile 275 Richardson Highway. The following table shows the average and
peak loads on the Whitestone isolated grid.
Table 6: Whitestone Community Monthly Load Patterns
Figure 22: Grid Interconnection Locations
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
4.3. Other Considerations
Existing Infrastructure
There is one boat ramp located at Mile 275 Richardson Highway between the Tanana River Bridge
and the Alyeska Pipeline Bridge. The ramp is wide enough and strong enough to accept any type of
heavy equipment and can be used to launch small boats (up to 30 ft). The only bridge near the site is
located upstream from the proposed research site at Mile 275 Richardson Highway and is called the
Tanana River Bridge. It is a two-lane bridge supported on piers.
There is one mechanic shop located within the boundaries of the WCA. However, the community is
only accessible by boat during the summer months. There are three workboats which could be
mobilized: two 18-ft. boats and one 25-ft. boat with an 1800 lb. capacity. All are equipped with
Honda, 4-stroke, outboard motors. The largest boats operating within this river reach have a draft of
3ft.
During the summer the only available and reliable transportation option is small boats. If the water is
at acceptable levels, the Delta River can be crossed using all-terrain track vehicles. The WCA has
access to one of these vehicles. In the winter, there is an ice bridge across the Delta River and no
limitation of vehicular access.
Ice & Debris
The rivers at Big Delta do not freeze over. Ice breakup, however, affects the area in late April and
lasts for about 48 hours. The river is saturated with silt from May through September and is clear for
the rest of the year. A significant amount of wood debris is present during the warm months.
Existing Scientific Report
Hydraulic Survey and Scour Assessment of Bridge 524, Tanana River at Big Delta, Alaska By
Thomas A. Heinrichs, Dustin E. Langley, Robert L. Burrows, and Jeffrey S. Conaway Prepared in
cooperation with the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Scientific
Investigations Report 2006–5282
28
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
4.4. Photographs
Figure 23: TransAlaska Pipeline crossing the Tanana River at BigDelta Junction
Figure 24: Richardson Highway crossing the Tanana River
29
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 25: View onto the Tanana River
4.5. Flow Velocity
The USGS maintains a stream gauging station on the Tanana River near Big Delta (Station# 15478000
Tanana R at Big Delta) with 10 years of daily discharge records (1947-1957). This data was used to
establish a data set suitable for evaluating RISEC technology. First a relationship between discharge
rate and velocity was established; that relationship function was then applied to the full data set to
determine the statistical parameters shown below. It is important to understand that the velocity
profiles and associated power densities are only valid for the transect the USGS used to calibrate the
flow data and which we used to calibrate the velocity data. Also, since the data was collected (1957),
the river bathymetry has probably shifted, and therefore further local calibration may be required to
gain more insight into the local flow velocity distributions. Also, no gage height data and very few
calibration points were available for that site.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 7: USGS station Summary
Name: Tanana River at Big Delta, AK
Station ID: 15478000
Southeast Fairbanks Division, Alaska
Hydrologic Unit Code 19040503
Latitude 64°09'20", Longitude 145°51'00"
Drainage area 13,500 square miles
Gage datum 962.95 feet above sea level
Table 8: Resource Data Overview
Velocities Unit
Average Velocity m/s 0.98
Average Mid-Channel Velocity m/s 1.28
Power
X-Section Average Power Density kW /m^2 0.67
Mid-Stream Average Power Density kW /m^2 1.48
Average Total Kinetic Power kW 762
Dimensions (During Typical Discharge Conditions)
Discharge Rate for Referenced Dimensions m^3/s 1,167
Cross-Section m^2 1,132
Width m 169
Average Depth m 6.7
Deepest Point m 11.9
Discharge
Average m^3/s 421
Maximum m^3/s 1,767
Minimum m^3/s 105
Maximum Stage Differential mNA
31
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Distance from s hore (m )Velocity (m/s)
Figure 26: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 41,200ft3/s
-14.0
-12.0
-10.0
-8.0
-6.0
-4.0
-2.0
0.0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Dis t anc e from s hore (m)Water Depth (m) Figure 27: USGS cross-section showing water depth at a discharge rate of 41,200ft3/s
32
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
y = 1.5063Ln(x) - 10.746
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000
D ischarge (ft^3/s)Velocity (ft/s)Velocity F i tte d Log. (Velocity) Figure 28: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%0.050.250.450.650.851.051.251.451.651.852.052.252.452.652.85Velocity (m/s)Frequency
Figure 29: Velocity Distribution at Site
33
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 9: Velocity Distribution Table at Site
Low Up Mid Dist.Power Dist x Power
(m/s)(m/s)(m/s)%(kW /m^2)
0.0 0.1 0.1 0%0.000 0.000
0.1 0.2 0.2 0%0.002 0.000
0.2 0.3 0.3 0%0.008 0.000
0.3 0.4 0.4 0%0.021 0.000
0.4 0.5 0.5 0%0.046 0.000
0.5 0.6 0.6 8%0.083 0.006
0.6 0.7 0.7 42%0.137 0.057
0.7 0.8 0.8 5%0.211 0.010
0.8 0.9 0.9 4%0.307 0.011
0.9 1.0 1.0 3%0.429 0.012
1.0 1.1 1.1 3%0.579 0.016
1.1 1.2 1.2 4%0.760 0.027
1.2 1.3 1.3 7%0.977 0.067
1.3 1.4 1.4 7%1.230 0.084
1.4 1.5 1.5 5%1.524 0.083
1.5 1.6 1.6 5%1.862 0.102
1.6 1.7 1.7 8%2.246 0.190
1.7 1.8 1.8 0%2.680 0.007
1.8 1.9 1.9 0%3.166 0.000
1.9 2.0 2.0 0%3.707 0.000
2.0 2.1 2.1 0%4.308 0.000
2.1 2.2 2.2 0%4.969 0.000
2.2 2.3 2.3 0%5.695 0.000
2.3 2.4 2.4 0%6.489 0.000
2.4 2.5 2.5 0%7.353 0.000
2.5 2.6 2.6 0%8.291 0.000
2.6 2.7 2.7 0%9.305 0.000
2.7 2.8 2.8 0%10.398 0.000
2.8 2.9 2.9 0%11.575 0.000
Average Power Density (kW/m^2)0.673
Speed Bin
34
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Monthft^3/s Figure 30: Monthly Average Discharge Rates
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
MonthVelocity (ft/s)Average Vel ft/s
Max Ve l ft/s
Mi n Ve l ft/s
Figure 31: Monthly Velocities at Site
35
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
3.00
3.50 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecMonthAvg Power Density (kW/m^2)Mean Pow er Dens ity
Max Power Density
Min power D ens ity
Figure 32: Monthly Power Densities at Site
36
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
5. Yukon River at Eagle
5.1 Site Description
Eagle is located on the west bank of the Yukon River, on the north terminus of the Taylor Highway
and about 6 miles west of the Alaska-Canada border. Eagle Village, at about 850 feet above sea level,
.is located approximately 3 miles upriver from the City of Eagle
Figure 33: Overview map
The Yukon River is located in the middle region of Alaska. The 2,300 mile-long Yukon River is the
mother river to the Tanana River and Chena Rivers. The river starts in the Yukon, Canada, and flows
through Alaska, emptying into the Bering Sea. The Yukon is one of the largest rivers in North
America. The river is very remote with only a few dozen sizeable communities along its entire length.
The river was a highway for prospectors during gold rush days (1890's) and continues to be an
important river highway. The waters of the Yukon are silty (from glacial melt) most of the year.
Eagle has a state-owned airstrip with commercial flights from Fairbanks, which provides access to this
remote community all year long. In summer the small community is also accessible by river boat and
via the Taylor Highway.
37
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 34: Google earth view onto airstrip and village
Figure 35: View onto village and Deer island
38
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
5.2 Electrical Interconnect
AP&T serves about 190 customers in the two communities (Eagle Village and City of Eagle),
providing electricity and communication services. The isolated grid has average loads of 70kW in
summer and 150kW in winter. Diesel generators are used to generate electricity and produce an
annual fuel consumption of 57,000 gallons.
5.3 Other Considerations
Eagle has a population of about 140, while Eagle Village is home to about 80. Subsistence activities
are part of the lifestyle. The local economy includes retail businesses, a school, utilities and mining.
Tourism is seasonal, and there is a river boat trip from Eagle to Dawson. Eagle has lodging and
restaurants.
The river normally begins to freeze in October, freezing to solid ice with a thickness of 4-8 feet.
There is also a frazil ice-layer below the solid ice. Ice breakup normally occurs in April and clears
by May. This breakup is potentially destructive, with large pieces of ice scouring the river bottom
and edges.
5.4 Photographs
Figure 36: View onto Yukon River at Eagle
39
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 37: Ice jamb during spring breakup. View upstream from Eagle
Figure 38: Ice jamb during spring breakup. View downstream from Eagle
40
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
5.5 Flow Velocity
The USGS maintains a stream gauging station on the Yukon River at Eagle, (Station# 15356000
Yukon River at Eagle) with 57 years of daily discharge records (1949-2006). That data was used to
establish a data set suitable for evaluating RISEC technology. First a relationship between discharge
rate and velocity was established; that relationship function was then applied to the full data set to
determine the statistical parameters shown below. It is important to understand that the velocity
profiles and associated power densities are only valid for the transect the USGS used to calibrate the
flow data and which we used to calibrate the velocity data.
Table 10: USGS station summary
Station Name: Yukon River at Eagle AK
Station ID: 15356000
Southeast Fairbanks Division, Alaska
Hydrologic Unit Code 19040401
Latitude 64°47'22", Longitude 141°11'52"
Drainage area 113,500 square miles
Gage datum 850.00 feet above sea level
Table 11: Resource Data Overview
Velocities Unit
Average Velocity m/s 1.18
Average Mid-Channel Velocity m/s 1.54
Power
X-Section Average Power Density kW /m^2 1.45
Mid-Stream Average Power Density kW /m^2 3.20
Average Total Kinetic Power kW 4,601
Dimensions (During Typical Discharge Conditions)
Discharge Rate for Referenced Dimensions m^3/s 5,182
Cross-Section m^2 3,162
Width m 465
Average Depth m 6.8
Deepest Point m 9.7
Discharge
Average m^3/s 2,363
Maximum m^3/s 15,433
Minimum m^3/s 204
Maximum Stage Differential m14.8
41
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
3.00
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500
Dis tanc e from s hore (m)Velocity (m/s)
Figure 39: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 183,000ft3/s
-12.0
-10.0
-8.0
-6.0
-4.0
-2.0
0.0
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500
Distance from shore (m)Water Depth (m)
Figure 40: USGS cross-section showing water depth at a discharge rate of 183,000ft3/s
42
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
y = 1.9989Ln(x) - 17.952
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
0 50000 100000 150000 200000 250000 300000
D isch arge (ft^3/s)Velocity (ft/s)Velocity F i tte d Log. (Velocity) Figure 41: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%0.050.250.450.650.851.051.251.451.651.852.052.252.452.652.85Velocity (m/s)Frequency
Figure 42: Velocity Distribution at Site
43
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 12: Velocity Distribution Table at Site
Low Up Mid Dist.Power Dist x Power
(m/s)(m/s)(m/s)%(kW /m^2)
0.0 0.1 0.1 0%0.000 0.000
0.1 0.2 0.2 0%0.002 0.000
0.2 0.3 0.3 0%0.008 0.000
0.3 0.4 0.4 0%0.021 0.000
0.4 0.5 0.5 0%0.046 0.000
0.5 0.6 0.6 30%0.083 0.025
0.6 0.7 0.7 11%0.137 0.015
0.7 0.8 0.8 5%0.211 0.010
0.8 0.9 0.9 3%0.307 0.010
0.9 1.0 1.0 2%0.429 0.009
1.0 1.1 1.1 2%0.579 0.014
1.1 1.2 1.2 2%0.760 0.017
1.2 1.3 1.3 3%0.977 0.027
1.3 1.4 1.4 3%1.230 0.040
1.4 1.5 1.5 4%1.524 0.054
1.5 1.6 1.6 5%1.862 0.097
1.6 1.7 1.7 3%2.246 0.074
1.7 1.8 1.8 5%2.680 0.132
1.8 1.9 1.9 4%3.166 0.121
1.9 2.0 2.0 5%3.707 0.203
2.0 2.1 2.1 4%4.308 0.165
2.1 2.2 2.2 3%4.969 0.163
2.2 2.3 2.3 5%5.695 0.280
2.3 2.4 2.4 0%6.489 0.000
2.4 2.5 2.5 0%7.353 0.000
2.5 2.6 2.6 0%8.291 0.000
2.6 2.7 2.7 0%9.305 0.000
2.7 2.8 2.8 0%10.398 0.000
2.8 2.9 2.9 0%11.575 0.000
Average Power Density (kW/m^2)1.455
Speed Bin
44
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Monthft^3/s
Figure 43: Monthly Average Discharge Rates
-1.00
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
MonthVelocity (ft/s)Average Vel ft/s
Max Ve l ft/s
Mi n Ve l ft/s
Figure 44: Monthly Velocities at Site
45
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
-1.00
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecMonthAvg Power Density (kW/m^2)Me an P owe r D ensi ty
Max P ower D ensi ty
M i n P o we r D e ns i ty
Figure 45: Monthly Average Power Densities at Site
-10
0
10
20
30
40
50
60 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecMonthGage Height (ft)Average Gage ft
Min Gage ft
Max Gage ft
Figure 46: Monthly Gage Height
46
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
6. Yukon River at Pilot Station
6.1. Site Description
The Yukon River is located in the middle region of Alaska. The 2,300 mile-long river starts in the
Yukon, Canada, and flows through Alaska, emptying in the Bering Sea. The Yukon is one of the
largest rivers in North America. The river is very remote, with only a few dozen sizeable communities
on its entire length. The river was a highway for prospectors during gold rush days (1890's) and
continues to be an important river highway. The waters of the Yukon are silty (from glacial melt) most
of the year.
Figure 47: Pilot Station on the Yukon River
47
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
6.3. Electrical Interconnection
The Pilot Station power plant is currently equipped with one peak load generator set capable of
individually meeting the current peak load requirements. The highest capacity unit is a high-efficiency
1800 RPM Cummins QSX15. Based upon the peak load projections, the power plant will have
adequate single engine generation capacity beyond the next four years. The installation of a higher-
capacity generator set inside the power plant or inside a future fireproof engine-generator module is
currently being deferred beyond the two-year period of this work plan. The Pilot Station power plant is
equipped with two remote radiators which provide redundant cooling capacity. There is a heat
exchanger and a hydronic heating system for transfer of heat to plant storage facilities. The existing
Pilot Station power plant site is subject to flooding. The relocation of the power plant and tank farm to
a site above maximum flood level, along with installation of an impermeable liner beneath the tank
farm, installation of a fence around the new power plant site, and extension of the fuel fill line, is
being deferred. The Pilot Station tank farm has marginal excess useable fuel storage capacity to meet
the annual requirements of the next two-year period. The major system improvements completed for
the Pilot Station generation and distribution system during the past two-year construction work plan
periods include installation of a second remote radiator, connection of all three generator sets to the
remote radiator cooling system, installation of a heat exchanger and hydronic heating system,
conversion of the generating voltage from 240 volt single-phase to 480 volt three-phase, installation of
a new control panel, and installation of a storage van and a ground grid. These improvements have all
been completed. Pilot station is currently on an isolated grid. However, AP&T has plans to connect
the Pilot station electrical grid with the nearby villages of St. Mary’s and Mt. Village. This could
provide an opportunity for the development of a RISEC system at a larger scale. The following table
provides an overview of the loads in the villages.
Table 13: Load Summary
Peak Load Average Load Minimum Load
(estimated)
Pilot Station 385 kW 195 kW 98 kW
St. Mary’s 603 kW 339 kW 169 kW
Mt. Village 544 kW 307 kW 153 kW
Total 1,532 kW 841 kW 420 kW
48
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Distribution lines are available in all villages, but a dedicated feeder all the way back to the diesel
plant may be good practice. For estimating purposes, one should expect to build 1.5 miles of new
distribution lines from a shore-side cable landing to the local grid interconnection point. The grid
interconnection voltage is 7.2kV and 12.47kV.
6.4. Other Considerations
Population and Census data
The stated population is in respect to local town and nearby villages that are served by the same
distribution grid. AVEC is investigating the possibility of interconnecting the mid-Yukon villages of
Pilot Station, St. Mary’s and Mt. Village. St. Mary’s is currently interconnected to Andreasky and
Pitka’s Point. This interconnection would consolidate loads that are presently served by three separate
diesel generating plants.
Table 14: Population Summary
Village Population
Pilot Station 574
St. Mary’s 551
Andreafsky 140
Pitka’s Point 109
Mt. Village 796
Total 2,170
Local Infrastructure
Motorboats are available locally to carry out installation and operational activities. In some cases,
workboats may be available only seasonally. Pilot Station has an airport suitable for small planes that
is maintained for year-round VFR operation. The village is served by tugs and barges from the period
immediately after ice breakup until fall of each year. As with the rest of rural Alaska, this estimate is
subject to change depending on factors such as spring runoff or winter storms.
49
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
River bed
The riverbank on the North (village) side of the river may have some instances of cobbles and rocks,
based on the surrounding geology, but this requires confirmation. For the most part, the entire
riverbed could be described as silt-laden sands. A potential site for an in-stream turbine at Pilto Station
is located about one mile upstream from the village at a bend and constriction in the Yukon River. At
Mt. Village, the best site for an in-stream turbine may be at the toe of Azachorok Hill, about one mile
downstream form the beach barge landing at Mt. Village.
Ice / Sedimentation
Ice breakup begins in May and lasts for two to three weeks, from the time ice begins to move until the
main stem is ice-free to the river mouth. The river freezes over again in October. The following table
lists the historical dates at which ice started moving. Water clarity in the Yukon is generally poor due
to silt. There are instances in which large trees and root wads can be moved downstream during spring
runoff or along with ice movement during breakup.
Table 15: Historical ice breakup dates
BREAKUP YEAR DATE ICE MOVED
1990 05-14
1995 05-09
2001 05-29
2002 05-18
2003 05-15
2004 05-03
2006 05-25
Competing uses of River-space
The deepest commercial vessels that serve the central Yukon do not normally exceed 6-8 feet draft.
Deeper draft vessels may navigate the river on occasion, but they are the exception and are attempted
only during high water periods in the spring. Vessels hold to the deepest channel in the river to avoid
grounding. Awareness of channels is acquired through local knowledge and trial and error, and is
subject to change. There are no aids to navigation marking the channel that are similar to what is used
on navigable waterways of the continental U.S. At each of the villages served by tug and barge
operations, an area in front of the village is required for maneuvering, and the most serviceable beach
50
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
is used as a landing to offload dry freight and fuel. There may be multiple landing areas in the same
village to accommodate different fuel customers (school, electric utility, village, store, etc.).
Environmental Considerations
The Yukon supports runs of King, Coho, Pink, and Chum salmon. It is known that the King Salmon
commercial fishery in the lower Yukon River is substantially regulated to prevent over-harvesting of
stocks.
Unique Opportunities
AVEC is investigating the possibility of interconnecting the mid-Yukon villages of Pilot Station, St.
Mary's and Mt. Village. St. Mary's is currently interconnected to Andreafsky and Pitka's Point. This
interconnection would consolidate loads that are presently served by three separate diesel generating
plants and may enhance the feasibility of an in-stream turbine project. Peak electrical loads in the area
typically occur in the winter months of January and February, with lowest loads in the summer months
of June or July. The possible peak load of the communities would be about 1532 KW, and the
combined average load is 841 KW. We do not record the lowest demand, but for planning purposes
one could use 0.5 of the average demand, or about 420 KW for the combined villages. It is likely that
the peak load would occur during the low flow period on the Yukon River, and the low load would
occur during the peak flow period on the Yukon. Therefore, the water availability and load needs are
mismatched; the question, then, is what portion of the load could be met during low flow periods. If all
of the output could be absorbed by the local grid, then the need for storage or power conditioning
would be simplified.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
6.5. Photographs
Figure 48: Yukon River
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
6.5. Flow Velocity
The USGS maintains a stream gauging station on the Yukon River at Pilot Station, (Station#
15565447 Yukon River at Pilot Station) with 31 years of daily discharge records (1975-2006). This
data was used to establish a data set suitable for evaluating RISEC technology. First a relationship
between discharge rate and velocity was established; that relationship function was then applied to
the full data set to determine the statistical parameters shown below. It is important to understand
that the velocity profiles and associated power densities are only valid for the transect the USGS
used to calibrate the flow data and which we used to calibrate the velocity data.
Table 16: USGS station summary
Station Name: Yukon River at Pilot Station, AK
Station ID: 15565447
Wade Hampton Division, Alaska
Hydrologic Unit Code 19040805
Latitude 61°56'04", Longitude 162°52'50" NAD27
Drainage area 321,000 square miles
Gage datum 20.00 feet above sea level
Table 17: Resource Data Overview
Velocities Unit
Average Velocity m/s 0.49
Average Mid-Channel Velocity m/s 0.64
Power
X-Section Average Power Density kW /m^2 0.15
Mid-Stream Average Power Density kW /m^2 0.32
Average Total Kinetic Power kW 1675
Dimensions (During Typical Discharge Conditions)
Discharge Rate for Referenced Dimensions m^3/s 6,201
Cross-Section m^2 11,393
Width m 808
Average Depth m 14.1
Deepest Point m 18.6
Discharge
Average m^3/s 3,989
Maximum m^3/s 33,414
Minimum m^3/s 204
Maximum Stage Differential m29.2
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
0 200 400 600 800 1000
Distance from shore (m)Velocity (m/s)
Figure 49: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 219,000ft3/s
-20.0
-18.0
-16.0
-14.0
-12.0
-10.0
-8.0
-6.0
-4.0
-2.0
0.0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900
Dis t anc e from s hore (m )Water Depth (m)
Figure 50: USGS cross-section showing water at a discharge rate of 219,000ft3/s
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
y = -3.7693E-12x2 + 1.0084E-05x + 3.1128E-01
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
0 200000 400000 600000 800000
Discharge (ft^3/s)Velocity (ft/s)Velocity Fitted Poly. (Velocity)
Figure 51: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%0.050.250.450.650.851.051.251.451.651.852.052.252.452.652.85Velocity (m/s)Frequency
Figure 52: Velocity Distribution at Site
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 18: Velocity Distribution Table at Site
Low Up Mid Dist.Power Dist x Power
(m/s)(m/s)(m/s)%(kW /m^2)
0.0 0.1 0.1 0%0.000 0.000
0.1 0.2 0.2 28%0.002 0.000
0.2 0.3 0.3 25%0.008 0.002
0.3 0.4 0.4 4%0.021 0.001
0.4 0.5 0.5 2%0.046 0.001
0.5 0.6 0.6 7%0.083 0.005
0.6 0.7 0.7 4%0.137 0.006
0.7 0.8 0.8 2%0.211 0.005
0.8 0.9 0.9 5%0.307 0.016
0.9 1.0 1.0 18%0.429 0.077
1.0 1.1 1.1 2%0.579 0.014
1.1 1.2 1.2 2%0.760 0.019
1.2 1.3 1.3 0%0.977 0.000
1.3 1.4 1.4 0%1.230 0.000
1.4 1.5 1.5 0%1.524 0.000
1.5 1.6 1.6 0%1.862 0.000
1.6 1.7 1.7 0%2.246 0.000
1.7 1.8 1.8 0%2.680 0.000
1.8 1.9 1.9 0%3.166 0.000
1.9 2.0 2.0 0%3.707 0.000
2.0 2.1 2.1 0%4.308 0.000
2.1 2.2 2.2 0%4.969 0.000
2.2 2.3 2.3 0%5.695 0.000
2.3 2.4 2.4 0%6.489 0.000
2.4 2.5 2.5 0%7.353 0.000
2.5 2.6 2.6 0%8.291 0.000
2.6 2.7 2.7 0%9.305 0.000
2.7 2.8 2.8 0%10.398 0.000
2.8 2.9 2.9 0%11.575 0.000
Average Power Density (kW/m^2)0.147
Speed Bin
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
350,000
400,000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Monthft^3/s
Figure 53: Monthly Average Discharge Rates
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
MonthVelocity (ft/s)Average Vel ft/s
Max Ve l ft/s
Mi n Ve l ft/s
Figure 54: Monthly Velocities
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
Jan Feb Mar A pr May Jun Jul A ug Sep Oc t Nov Dec
MonthAvg Power Density O(kW/m^2)M ean P ower Dens it y
Max Power Density
Min P ower Dens it y
Figure 55: Monthly Power Densities at Site
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep O c t Nov Dec
MonthGage Height (ft)Average Gage ft
Min Gage ft
Max Gage ft
Figure 56: Monthly Gage Height
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
7. Kvichak River at Igiugig
7.1. Site Description
Igiugig is located on the south shore of the Kvichak River, which flows from Iliamna Lake, on the
Alaska Peninsula. It is 50 air miles northeast of King Salmon and 48 miles southwest of Iliamna.
Igiugig lies at approximately 59.327780° North Latitude and -155.894720° West Longitude. (Sec. 08,
T010S, R039W, Seward Meridian.) It is located in the Iliamna Recording District. The area
encompasses 19.8 sq. miles of land and 1.3 sq. miles of water. Igiugig lies within the transitional
climatic zone. Average summer temperatures range from 42 to 62; winter temperatures average 6 to
30. The record high is 91, and the record low is -47. Precipitation averages 26 inches annually,
including 64 inches of snow.
Igiugig is accessible primarily by water and air. Charter flights are available from Iliamna and King
Salmon. The State owns and maintains a 3,000' long by 75' wide gravel runway. A small public dock
is available. Barges deliver goods from Naknek or Dillingham in the fall, and Igiugig Corp. operates a
barge system on Lake Iliamna.
As is typical for the region, salmon fishing is the mainstay of Igiugig's economy. Five residents hold
commercial fishing permits. Many travel to Naknek each summer to fish or work in the canneries.
Subsistence is an important part of the residents' lifestyle. Salmon, trout, whitefish, moose, caribou
and rabbit are utilized, with some trapping activity. Lake Iliamna is the second largest lake in the U.S.,
and trophy rainbow trout attract sport fishermen. There are seven commercial lodges in Igiugig that
serve sports fishermen and hunters seasonally.
The community of Igiugig is located at 59°19’47”N, 155°54’29”W at the mouth of the Kvichak River
as it drains out of Lake Iliamna. Igiugig is a small village (population 56) located in southwestern
Alaska, on the south bank of the mouth of the Kvichak River and Lake Iliamna. The village is 48 miles
southwest of Iliamna, Alaska, and 56 miles northeast of King Salmon, Alaska. The Village's
population consists mainly of Yupik Eskimos, Aleuts, and Athabascan Indians.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Figure 57: Location overview map
Figure 58: Water velocity readings at proposed site: June 20th 2007
Distances:
• from shore to readings in boxes a
and d is 15’
• from boxes a and d to readings in
boxes b and e is 100’
• from boxes b and e to readings in
boxes c and f is 130’
1’:4.90fps
4’:4.98fps
5’:4.30fps
box C
1’: 7.42fps
4’: 6.39fps
8’: 5.47fps
box B
1’: 3.41fps
4’: 4.26fps
6’: 4.21fps
box A
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
7.2. Electrical Interconnection
The Alaska Energy Authority is preparing a conceptual design report for a powerhouse upgrade at
Igiugig. The upgrade is expected to include new Tier II marine gensets and auto synchronized switch
gear that interprets loads and integrates proper generator set capacity and operation per load
requirement. Design engineers are evaluating alternative energy upgrades in the powerhouse design to
ensure cost-efficient implementation, if successful with a hydro potential project.
IEC has three generators ranging from 60 to 100kW that work independently per load, as necessary to
energize the community’s 7200 volt three-phase distribution system installed in two phases, 1998 and
2002.
Tract H1 (attached community profile map) contains the community powerhouse/bulk fuel facility and
illustrates the optimal location of the powerhouse to the river/hydro source for generation and
distribution (all within 200’ of the rivers edge). Historical load patterns range from 40kW to 95kW
with the coldest months of December, January, and February requiring the greatest peak load
demands. These demands typically spike morning through afternoon when the local K-12 school is in
session. Currently load recorders are gathering data for AEA, and a copy of as-builts of Igiugig
Community’s distribution system is on file with AEA.
7.3. Other Considerations
Population and Census Data
Currently Igiugig has 56 year-round residents with a summer population of 75, and provides goods
and services to six area tourism lodges and their respective clientele and workforce of 90 additional
persons per week. Igiugig is a distribution hub for bulk fuel, propane, barging services, a DEC Class
III landfill, public water/wastewater distribution system, washeteria, health clinic, and airport
expediting covering an area exceeding 25 square miles.
Local Infrastructure
Igiugig Village Council has an extensive infrastructure. The community has a 3300-foot airport
runway with AWOS and GPS approach. Barge service via Bristol Bay is available August through
September most years. The community is barge accessible for Anchorage/Kenai/Homer May through
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
October via the Pile Bay/Williamsport Road, and across Lake Iliamna all years. The IVC owns a 30’
x 80’ FlexiFloat flat deck barge capable of carrying 225,000 pounds and distributes 90% of non fuel-
related goods for all the communities and businesses of the Lake Iliamna region. Local residents have
multiple 32’x13’ aluminum 450HP plus diesel-powered fishing boats that pull or push the FlexiFloat
when needed. Many power skiffs ranging from 18’ to 24’ and 80 to 150HP are available as well to
assist in any potential installation and/or operational activities.
IVC is an owner of a tribally owned heavy construction firm, Iliamna Lake Contractors LLC, and has
access to a large inventory of heavy equipment that is fully operational, modern and well maintained,
including:
• Cat 330 and 320 excavator
• Cat 966 and 950 loaders, buckets and forks
• 10 yard cement truck and fill hopper
• Cat 163 grader and JD 572 grader
• Numerous 10/12 yard end dumps, 20 yard Cat D300E articulating dump
• Plasma cutter/welders, aluminum, steel, etc.
• Cat D7, Cat D6, Cat D4, 2 JD 450 dozer/backhoes
• 40’ Boom Truck, 15,000 lb. crane
• Numerous light and heavy power tools, winches, etc.
All of the above can operate off of FlexiFloat barge.
River Bed
The Kvichak River bed consists of a fine silt base and an overburden of cobbles, rocks and gravel,
depending on current and location of river width. Directly adjacent to the powerhouse the river
expends its greatest velocity and/or gradient as it leaves Lake Iliamna and winds down the “cut-bank.”
The riverbed here is characterized by rocks approximately 6”- 12” in diameter interlaced with stones,
sand, and gravel for a protective barrier to the underlying silts. River width at this location is
approximately 437 feet.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Ice
Ice formation may occur from November through February, and is periodic as the high current and
large volume of moving water typically precludes its retention. Total river freeze-over is rare at this
location and usually requires a freeze/thaw/wind event to push ice out of the lake and fill the river.
Twenty-five years of local experience estimates that this portion of the river is frozen over completely
less than two weeks of the year. Some years no ice has formed or discharged down the Kvichak.
Spring breakup usually occurs March through May, with ice passage lasting approximately two to
three weeks. Thickness of passing ice ranges from 3” to 4’.
River depth raises approximately 4 to 6 feet in depth May through October with temporary wind-
driven increases of an additional 6” to 2’. Greatest depths occur in late fall (September/October) and
lowest depth after ice cover loss on Lake Iliamna in April/May. Please note attachment 2 obtained
from ADF&G Smolt Sonar Coordinator Fred West. The higher averages f/sec was obtained at a camp
located 3.6km to the outlet of Lake Iliamna. Our site is approximately .2km below the outlet of Lake
Iliamna.
Water Clarity/Suspended Sediments
Water clarity is extremely clear during periods of calm wind with visual bottom observation possible
at 10 feet or more. Prevailing east winds may increase turbidity with organics and silt, but these
readily settle depending on direction and change of wind speed. The Kvichak River has little to no
large debris, as sparse vegetation and its close proximity to the outlet doesn’t allow these obstructions
to accumulate. The west end of Lake Iliamna is virtually free of large debris.
Competing Uses of River-space
The Kvichak River is a navigable waterway that allows a range of marine traffic from a skiff to a LCM
barge that may draw up to 8’. Directly adjacent to the powerhouse, traffic is minimal due to the heavy
current and lack of infrastructure requiring access.
Environmental Considerations
The Kvichak River supports populations of all five species of Alaska Salmon, as well as an abundant
stock of Rainbow Trout, Grayling, Dolly Varden, Whitefish, Pike, Ling Cod, etc. Annual smolt
63
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
outmigration generally occurs in May/June for approximately three weeks, with peak passage
occurring in the cover of nightfall. Mitigation efforts to deflect fish passage, removal or shutdown of
equipment may be required to manage potential conflicts.
Unique Opportunities
IEC, a sustainable operation for over 25 years, will ensure success if considered for a hydroelectric
study in new technologies. Management, accounting, and maintenance staff have a combined 65 years
experience with this utilities operation and distribution. IEC Manager Dan Salmon has worked 14+
summers as an ADF&G fisheries technician during salmon smolt outmigration and adult spawning
return on this section of the river and will be directly involved with mitigation efforts and timely
deployment of proposed technology. Locally available heavy equipment, suitable barge and numerous
boats will provide safe and cost-effective deployment and maintenance. The local utilities
powerhouse and distribution proximity to the proposed site is optimal and cost-efficient for this study
to occur. The Kvichak River’s clarity, debris-free, lack of ice coverage and discharge are all
characteristics conducive to minimal disturbance and effective operation of proposed technology.
Lastly, IEC’s stage of powerhouse upgrade engineering, its recent distribution network of 7200V 3-
phase underground upgrade, and a guaranteed $50,000.00 cash match from the community will
provide a vested interest and guarantee the success of this proposed project.
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
7.4. Photographs
Figure 59: Landing strip at Igiugig
7.5. Flow Velocity
The USGS maintains a stream gauging station on the Kvichak River at Igiugig (Station# 15300500
Kvichak River at Igiugig), with 21 years of daily discharge records over the period between 1966 and
1987. That data was used to establish a data set suitable for evaluating RISEC technology. First a
relationship between discharge rate and velocity was established; that relationship function was then
applied to the full data set to determine the statistical parameters shown below. It is important to
understand that the velocity profiles and associated power densities are only valid for the transect the
USGS used to calibrate the flow data and which we used to calibrate the velocity data.
Table 19: USGS Station Summary
Station Name: Kvichak River at Igiugig, AK
Station ID: 15300500
Lake And Peninsula Borough, Alaska
Hydrologic Unit Code 19030206
Latitude 59°19'44", Longitude 155°53'57"
Drainage area 6,500.00 square miles
Gage datum 45.00 feet above sea level
65
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 20: Resource Data Overview
Velocities Unit
Average Velocity m /s 1.41
Average Mid-Channel Velocity m /s 1.84
Power
X-Section Average Power Density kW /m^2 1.48
Mid-Stream Average Power Density kW /m^2 3.24
Average Total Kinetic Power kW 719
Dimensions (During Typical Discharge Conditions)
Discharge Rate for Referenced Dimensions m^3/s 487
Cross-Section m^2 365
Width m 152
Average Depth m 2.4
Deepest Point m 3.7
Discharge
Average m^3/s 507
Maximum m^3/s 1,277
Minimum m^3/s 181
Maximum Stage Differential mNA
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Distance from shore (m)Velocity (m/s)
Figure 60: USGS cross-section showing velocity at a discharge rate of 17,200ft3/s
66
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
-4.0
-3.5
-3.0
-2.5
-2.0
-1.5
-1.0
-0.5
0.0
0 50 100 150 200
Dis tance from s hore (m )Water Depth (m)
Figure 61: USGS cross-section showing water depth at a discharge rate of 17,200ft3/s
y = 2.5635Ln(x) - 20.345
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 60000
Velocity
Fitted
Log. (Velocity)
Figure 62: Relationship between Velocity and Discharge Rate
67
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10%
12%
14%
16%
18%
20%0.050.250.450.650.851.051.251.451.651.852.052.252.452.652.85Velocity (m/s)Frequency
Figure 63: Velocity Distribution at Site
68
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
Table 21: Velocity Distribution Table at Site
Low Up Mid Dist.Power Dist x Power
(m/s)(m/s)(m/s)%(kW /m^2)
0.0 0.1 0.1 0%0.000 0.000
0.1 0.2 0.2 0%0.002 0.000
0.2 0.3 0.3 0%0.008 0.000
0.3 0.4 0.4 0%0.021 0.000
0.4 0.5 0.5 0%0.046 0.000
0.5 0.6 0.6 0%0.083 0.000
0.6 0.7 0.7 0%0.137 0.000
0.7 0.8 0.8 0%0.211 0.000
0.8 0.9 0.9 0%0.307 0.000
0.9 1.0 1.0 0%0.429 0.000
1.0 1.1 1.1 15%0.579 0.087
1.1 1.2 1.2 16%0.760 0.125
1.2 1.3 1.3 11%0.977 0.112
1.3 1.4 1.4 11%1.230 0.134
1.4 1.5 1.5 9%1.524 0.137
1.5 1.6 1.6 9%1.862 0.173
1.6 1.7 1.7 9%2.246 0.203
1.7 1.8 1.8 19%2.680 0.505
1.8 1.9 1.9 0%3.166 0.000
1.9 2.0 2.0 0%3.707 0.000
2.0 2.1 2.1 0%4.308 0.000
2.1 2.2 2.2 0%4.969 0.000
2.2 2.3 2.3 0%5.695 0.000
2.3 2.4 2.4 0%6.489 0.000
2.4 2.5 2.5 0%7.353 0.000
2.5 2.6 2.6 0%8.291 0.000
2.6 2.7 2.7 0%9.305 0.000
2.7 2.8 2.8 0%10.398 0.000
2.8 2.9 2.9 0%11.575 0.000
Average Power Density (kW/m^2)1.476
Speed Bin
69
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Monthft^3/s
Figure 64: Monthly Average Discharge Rates
M onthly Variability
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
MonthVelocity (ft/s)Average Vel ft/s
Max Ve l ft/s
Mi n Ve l ft/s
Figure 65: Monthly Velocities at Site
70
River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecMonth Avg Power Density (kW/m^2)Mean Power Density
Max P ower D ensi ty
M i n P o we r D e ns i ty
Figure 66: Monthly Power Densities at Site
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River In-Stream Energy Conversion Feasibility Study: Site Report – Alaska
8. References
1) K.Schulze, M.Hunger, P.Doll, “Simulating river flow velocity on global scale.”
2) G. Hagerman, B.Polagye, “EPRI TP-001 Methodology for Estimating Tidal Current Energy
Resources and Power Production by Tidal In-Stream Energy Conversion (TISEC) Devices.”
Available under the title page at www.epri.com/oceanenergy/
3) Personal communication with David Lockard
4) Personal communication with Steve Selvaggio – Big Delta / Whitestone Community
5) Personal communication with Alex Leavens – Manley Hot Springs
6) Personal communication with Scott Willis – Juneau
7) Personal communication with Bob Grimm – Eagle
8) Personal communication with Brent Petrie – Mountain Village
72