Abstract

An implementable methodology is proposed for the evaluation of open well-pico turbine pumped-hydro storage systems in Nigeria. Open wells are available in many Nigerian homes and thus present opportunities for pico turbine pumped-hydro storage (PTP-HS) for electricity supply augmentation at individual homes. Hence a model to evaluate the potential of PTP-HS for electricity supply of household and resource characteristics of an available open well has been developed. The model includes a procedure for determining suitable sizes and technical specifications of PTP-HS components based on household energy demand. The model also covers assessment of yield potential of an open well for PTP-HS based on water volume capacity, expected duration of system operation, and system storage capacity. The model was applied to a case study and the results were presented and discussed accordingly. Thus, the study has unveiled a procedure that can aid in evaluating the technical feasibility of open well resources for PTP-HS in Nigeria.