Integrating Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) for Optimizing Small Hydropower Sites: A West Java Case Study

This study explores potential locations of small hydropower (SHP) in a specific region by aligning Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) rainfall data with ground station records. It refines river discharge time series using the Delft Flood Early Warning System (DELFT-FEWS) model and observed data, it also provides invaluable data and insights into water bodies' hydrological patterns and behavior, allowing for accurate forecasting of potential floods and water discharge fluctuations. Developing hydropower would be simpler if a nationally integrated system could monitor river discharge at any time by stakeholders. Calculations of dependable discharge Q90 enhance SHP feasibility assessments through flow duration curves. Integrating dependable discharges with head values estimates potential hydropower. The study identifies optimal sites aligning with substations and residential areas, emphasizing enhanced power transmission efficiency—the Total SHP Potential calculation results of 32.5 MW in 18 locations in West Java. Implementing an FEWS holds significant advantages for the sustainability of hydropower projects