Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia

Transcription

1 European Journal of Scientific Research ISSN X Vol.41 No.3 (2010), pp EuroJournals Publishing, Inc Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia Nathan Raman Department of Mechanical Engineering Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Malaysia Ibrahim Hussein Department of Mechanical Engineering Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Malaysia Tel: ; Fax: Abstract Combinations of highland areas with huge river networks promise Malaysia with a lot of hydro power potential. To date Malaysia had utilized this potential mainly in the range of large and mini hydropower but very few in the micro hydro range. Micro hydro refers to power in the range of 5 to 100. Micro hydro can provide alternative renewable energy sources especially in areas with small rivers or streams flowing. In identifying the micro hydro potential sites, reconnaissance study is normally conducted. It is a preliminary study to identify possible micro hydropower potential sites. This paper presents the results of a reconnaissance study carried out to identify the micro hydro potential sites in Malaysia. The reconnaissance study was conducted with data from the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia, (JUPEM) and Metrological Department Malaysia. All the identified streams are located in areas which are accessible and/or showed evidence of settlements. Only streams with high head i.e. above 50m were considered in this study. From the reconnaissance study, a total of 149 sites with estimated micro hydro potential of 28.9MW were identified. However, the energy demand for micro hydro was found not significant as most areas in Malaysia are electrified. Still, micro hydro may serve as alternative renewable energy source in future amid rising electricity cost. Keywords: Renewable energy, micro hydro, reconnaissance study, potential sites 1. Introduction Hydropower is the most widely used renewable energy source worldwide as it contributes 19% of the world s electricity power from both large and small power plants [1,2]. In Malaysia, hydropower utilization for electricity started in July 1900 when a small hydroelectric plant was constructed on the bank of Sempam River near Raub, Pahang by the Raub-Australian gold mining company [3,4]. The utilization of hydropower in Malaysia to supply electricity for domestic use however, was only commercially available around the 1970s [3]. To date, there are twelve large-scale

2 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 355 hydropower stations and fifty eight mini scale hydropower stations in Malaysia with Bakun project is another large scale hydropower plant in progress with a total generating capacity of 2400 MW [5]. In total, Malaysia has hydropower electricity generating capacity of about 18,500 MW and this represents about 20% of Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), the largest power utility company in Malaysia, total capacity [6,7]. Although Malaysia had successfully benefited from large and mini scale hydropower for electricity, micro hydro had only been recently implemented in a few sites in East Malaysia [8,9]. However, there are still no micro hydro schemes in West Malaysia and the potential of micro hydropower in Malaysia has not been fully identified. With hilly topography almost from South to North, East to West and abundant number of streams flowing to foothills, Malaysia has a lot of micro hydro potential. Micro hydro capacity is in the range of 5 to 100 [10]. If this potential is fully utilized, it will help in generating power from environmentally friendly run-of river type of hydropower system. It provides a good solution for energy problems in remote and hilly areas where the extension of grid system is comparatively uneconomical. Micro hydropower had already proven to be a practical and potential low-cost option for generating electricity at remote sites, particularly for small villages in hilly areas such as East Malaysia, India, China, and Kenya [8,9,10]. Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and other Asian and African countries have micro hydro projects implemented which in most cases implements standardized technologies for off grid decentralized village hydro schemes. In some cases the micro hydro systems replace the diesel generators and are used as hybrid systems with solar powers [11,12,13,14]. These systems also had been used for direct mechanical energy for small industries and agriculture such as battery charging, welding workshop, crop processing, and grain milling in developing countries [15]. Since the micro hydro system can be used as direct mechanical drive scheme or electricity scheme, the installation of these systems in the remote villages especially the mountainous one had bring huge social-economic development in the villages [10]. There is also a possibility for off-grid serve as decentralized from micro hydropower to the surrounding areas if proven economical. Micro hydropower projects are generally considered to be more environmentally favorable than both large hydro and fossil fuel powered plants. With all these advantages, micro hydropower can be said as principle renewable sources for sustainable development especially in developing countries. This paper presents the results of a reconnaissance study carried out to identify the micro hydro potential sites in Malaysia. In this study, the topography maps and hydrology data were used to identify the heads and the mean annual flow rates of the sites. All the identified streams were located in areas which are accessible and/or showed evidence of settlements. Only streams with high head i.e. above 50m were considered in this study. Using the heads and flow rates, the available hydraulic power of the micro hydro sites can be estimated. 2. Overview of Micro Hydro Potential in Malaysia Malaysia comprises of two distinct regions which are West Malaysia covering Peninsula Malaysia and East Malaysia covering North Borneo. In total, both regions cover land area of sq. km in which 58% is lowland areas and 42% is highland areas [16]. The highland areas in Malaysia are created by numbers of well known ranges. In Peninsula Malaysia, the highland areas are created by ranges such as Titiwangsa, Tahan, Bintang, Kledang, and Pantai Timur. Barisan Titiwangsa range is the main range which is considered as the backbone of the Peninsula. In Sarawak, the highland areas were created mainly by Tama Abu, Iran and Kapuas Hulu ranges. In Sabah the highland areas were created by Crocker, Maitland and Brassey ranges. With average rainfall of 2540 mm in Peninsula, 2630 mm in Sabah and 3850 mm in Sarawak, Malaysia is blessed with abundant streams and rivers flowing from the highland areas created by these ranges [17]. Combinations of highland areas with huge river networks promise Malaysia with a lot of micro hydropower potential. Figure 1 and 2 show the map of Peninsula Malaysia and East Malaysia respectively.

3 356 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein 3. Methodology In identifying the micro hydro potential sites in Malaysia, a reconnaissance study was carried out. A reconnaissance study is an initial stage or preliminary study to identify possible hydropower potential sites [19]. The reconnaissance study is divided into two main parts which are map studies and hydrology studies. For both part of the studies, topographic maps and meteorology data were used to estimate the head and flow rate of the identified micro hydro potential sites. Figure 1: Map of Peninsula Malaysia [18] Figure 2: Map of East Malaysia [18]

4 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia Map Studies Map studies were carried out by using topographic maps obtained from department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM). Below are the details of the topographic maps used. Map name: Malaysia topography map (Series L7030) Scale: 1: Contour: Contour Vertical interval 20 meters From the topography map studies, the detail information of the sites was recorded. Listed below are the information gathered during the studies. Name of catchment areas and streams Latitudinal extent and longitudinal extent Highest and lowest elevation The site terrain and river profile description Possible intake, diversion to fore bay and powerhouse elevation. head and catchment area estimation All the details showed the physiographic characteristics of the sites. From the physiographic characteristics, the sites having micro hydro potential were predicted. From the details above, the suitable catchment areas which may have micro hydro potential were identified by considering three main factors which are the energy demand, accessibility and river profile. The terrains of the catchment areas were carefully studied to find the suitable elevation for stream diversion and head. The river profile refers to the river s gradient and its tributaries. This helps to determine the streams water resources and flow availability. Overall, from the map studies, the suitable streams, heads, catchment areas, and waterway routes were identified for micro hydro [19]. The catchment areas were used for hydrology studies. The available head is estimated by determining the difference in elevation between the possible intake and tailrace of the site Hydrology Studies Since most potential micro hydropower sites are ungauged, i.e. no measurement of streams flow rate, the stream flow available for micro hydro was predicted by estimating the mean annual flow, Q m. The catchment water balance methodology was used to estimate Q m [15]. Q m was determined using equation. Q m = (AARD x Area) / (1) Q m = Mean annual flow in m 3 /s AARD = catchment runoff depth Area = Catchment area in km 2 The long term average annual catchment runoff depth (AARD) is given by equation (2) AARD = SAAR AE (2) AARD = Average annual catchment runoff, mm SAAR = Standard average annual rainfall, mm AE = Actual evaporation, mm Actual evaporation was estimated from potential evaporation using a scaling factor r, where r increases with SAAR and hence increasing water availability. The actual evaporation is estimated using equation (3): AE = r x PE (3) This relationship between r and SAAR is given by: r = x SAAR for SAAR < 850mm r = 1.0 for SAAR 850mm For catchments with annual average rainfall in excess of 850mm/year, it was assumed that actual evaporation equals to potential evaporation. SAAR and potential evaporation were estimated from the rainfall and daily potential evaporation (PE) data. The annual rainfall and daily evaporation

5 358 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein data used were from period of 1997 to 2007 and were obtained from Malaysian meteorological department [20]. For the daily evaporation data, the annual evaporation data for each year was calculated for the period of 1998 to The average annual evaporation and average annual rainfall for the 10 years were used for hydrology studies. Both annual rainfall and daily evaporation data used were taken from nearest meteorology station. Table 1 and Table 2 show the annual rainfall data and annual evaporation rate data respectively. Table 1: Average Rainfall from 1997 to 2007 Rainfall Station State Micro Hydro Potential Sites Location Average Rainfall Rate, mm MARDI Kluang Johor Bekok Hospital Tangkak Johor Sagil, Kebun Kechil, Jementah MARDI Alor Bukit, Pontian Johor Pekan Nenas Felda Tanah Abang, Mersing Johor Tioman 2395 Hospital Jelebu N.Sembilan Kenaboi, Jelebu, K.Klawang Hospital K.Pilah N.Sembilan T.Ipoh, Seri Meranti, Terachi, Atherton Estate, Rantau N.Sembilan Pedas, Chembong, Kendong, Kota Tampin Ulu Gombak Selangor Gombak Ulu Langat Selangor Ulu Langat Felda Kg. New Zealand Pahang Kuantan Felda Kg.Sertik Pahang Karak, Felda Lurah Bilut Pahang Bentong, Felda Tersang Satu Pahang Raub Pos Senderut Pahang Kuala Lipis Pusat Perikanan Bukit Tinggi Pahang Bentong Pusat Pertanian Kg.Awah Pahang Temerloh 2053 RPS Betau Pahang K.Lipis Pos Telanok Pahang Cameron Highland Pos Terisu Pahang Cameron Highland Hospital Tapah Perak Chendriang, Felda Sungai Berang Perak Tanjung Malim 2590 Felda Trolak Utara Perak Bidor Hospital Kampar Perak Kampar MARDI Parit Perak K.Kangsar Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta Perak Gopeng Felda Lasah Perak K.Kangsar Hospital Lenggong Perak Lenggong, Langkawi Pos Legap Perak K.Kangsar, Gua Musang Pos Piah Perak Lenggong Felda Ijok Perak Larut Ampangan Muda Kedah Sik Hospital Baling Kedah Baling Pos Belatim Kelantan Gua Musang Pos Brook Kelantan Gua Musang Pos Gob Kelantan Gua Musang 2886 Pos Hau Kelantan Gua Musang Pos Wias Kelantan Gua Musang RPS Kuala Betis Kelantan Gua Musang Felda Jerangau Terengganu Dungun Institut Pertanian Besut Terengganu Besut Ranau Sabah Kundasang, Sandakan Sapulot Sabah Tenom, Sipitang, Pensiangan Batu Bajau Sabah Penampang, Tuaran Kabuloh Sarawak Kuching, Miri, Limbang, Kapit

6 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 359 Table 2: Average Evaporation Rate from 1997 to 2007 Meteorology Average State Micro Hydro Potential Sites Location Station Evaporation Rate, mm Kluang Johor Bekok, Pekan Nenas, Tioman Johor - Sagil, Kebun Kechil, Jementah, Batu Pahat Johor N.Sembilan- T.Ipoh, Seri Meranti, Terachi, Pedas, Chembong, Kendong, Kota Tampin, Kenaboi, Jelebu, K.Klawang Subang Selangor Ulu Langat, Gombak Temerloh Pahang Karak, Kuantan Batu Embun Pahang K.Lipis, Bentong, Termerloh Ipoh Perak Chendriang, Tanjung Malim, Kampar, Gopeng, Tapah, K.Kangsar Lubuk Merbau Perak Larut, Alor Setar Kedah Sik, Baling Pulau Langkawi Kedah Langkawi Cameron Highland Pahang Gua Musang, Tanah Rata, Brincang, and Ringlet Kuala Terengganu Terengganu Besut, Dungun Kota Kinabalu Sabah Sipitang, Tenom, Pensiangan, Penampang, Ranau, Sandakan, Tuaran Kuching Sarawak Kuching Miri Sarawak Kapit, Miri, Limbang The estimated Q m values gave an indication whether the flow at the identified site is adequate for micro hydropower or not. Even though the approach used to estimate the mean annual flow may not be precise, the values obtained are reliable enough to estimate the total available hydraulic energy on the specified sites [21] Estimation of Energy The estimated heads and flow rates from the map studies and hydrology studies at identified micro hydro sites were used to estimate the total available power of the sites [15]. Efficiency factor of 0.6 was selected to estimate the realistic available power from the sites [22]. The equation used is as shown in equation (4). P=0.6 x Q x g x H (4) where, P = Energy change per second in Q = Volume per second of water fall down in (m 3 /s) g = Acceleration due to gravity H = head in m 3.4. Site Exploration A series of stream exploration were also conducted to verify the results of the reconnaissance study. From the exploration, the streams identified for micro hydro were searched and the real conditions of the streams and its surrounding were studied carefully. A few sites were selected for site exploration. Generally from the exploration, all the streams identified for micro hydro were found to have enough flow for micro hydro electricity. The site stream exploration was carried out in Johor, N. Sembilan and Pahang. 4. Results and Discussion The results obtained from the reconnaissance study in Peninsular Malaysia are discussed according to regions i.e. Southern Region, Central Region and Northern Region and for East Malaysia according to

7 360 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein states i.e. Sabah and Sarawak. Table 3 shows the summary of the micro hydro potential sites for the whole of Malaysia. Details on the studies carried out in Peninsular Malaysia are described in the paper by Nathan and Ibrahim [23]. Table 3: Micro Hydro Potential Sites by State No. State No. of Sites Total Estimated 1 Johor Negeri Sembilan Malacca Selangor Pahang Perak Kedah Penang Perlis Kelantan Terengganu Sabah Sarawak Total Southern Region of Peninsular Malaysia For the southern region, there were 12 micro hydro potential sites identified in Johor, 17 sites identified in Negeri Sembilan and none in Malacca. The identified sites for Johor and Negeri Sembilan are shown in Table 4 and Table 5 respectively. From the map studies, it was found that there are no much hilly regions except for the Tahan range and two isolated mountains which are the Mount Pulai and Mount Ledang in Johor. In these hilly regions, 12 sites have been identified to have micro hydro potential and 6 identified sites in Bekok, along the Tahan range. At these sites there are orang asli settlements with good road accessibility. Orang asli is the indigenous/native people of Peninsula Malaysia and most of them live in or near the jungles. 5 sites in Tangkak and Jementah are located at the foothill of Mount Ledang. Another site in Pekan Nenas is located at the foothill of Mount Pulai. The sites located in these two mountains have good road accessibility with high heads. Overall, Johor has an estimated micro hydro potential of Since most of the places in Johor are electrified, the identified micro hydro potential sites are suitable for off only. In Negeri Sembilan, the hilly regions were found to be located in the middle part of the state i.e. in Kuala Klawang, Jelebu, K. Pilah, Seri Meranti, and Rembau. The hilly regions are created by the Titiwangsa range. From these hilly regions, 17 sites were identified to have micro hydro potential. All the sites are located very near to villages located at the foothills of Titiwangsa range. The sites have good accessibility with high heads. Most of the places in N. Sembilan have electricity except for Northern N. Sembilan in the Kenaboi region, Jelebu. Other 15 sites around Seri Meranti, K. Pilah, Rembau and K.Klawang are suitable for off-. Overall, N. Sembilan has an estimated of micro hydro potential. In Malacca, there is no site identified because there is no hilly region and potential stream for micro hydro. The only hilly region is in south Melaka where Mount Ledang is located.

8 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 361 Table 4: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Johor No Stream Name Site Location 1 Sg. Senderet 2 Sg. Lamyang 3 Sg. Genal 4 Sg. Kemarat 5 Sg. Sechawai 6 Sg. Pencharang 7 Sg. Anak Ayer Puteh 8 Sg. Ayer Panas Orang asli village of Sg. Selai, Bekok Orang asli village of Sg. Kemidak, Bekok Orang asli village of Sg. Kemidak, Bekok Orang asli village of Sg. Kemidak, Bekok Orang asli village of Kg.Tamok, Bekok Orang asli village of Kg. Tembayan, Bekok Ladang Tangkah, Sagil,Tangkak Mt.Ledang Recreation Park, Tangkak Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s Sg. Sagil Sagil, Tangkak Sg. Legeh Sg. Ulu Jementah Sg. Ayer Hitam Besar Ladang Kebun Bahru, Kebun Bahru, Tangkak Kg. Peng Jongkang, Jementah,Tangkak Mt.Pulai waterfall, Pekan Nenas, Skudai Possible Energy,,,,,, Alternative Off Alternative Off Alternative Off Alternative Off Alternative Off Alternative Off From a series of sites stream exploration conducted in Johor and N. Sembilan, the energy demand from micro hydro was found not significant in the Southern region. This is because almost all the places are electrified. Even all the orang asli settlements in the Southern region have electricity supply except for Kg. London in Kenaboi region, Jelebu. All these places are accessible by road. For examples, in Bekok, orang asli settlements such as Kg. Sri Tembayan, Kg. Kudong, Kg. Tamok and Kg. Ulu Selai have good road accessibility because these areas are the main route to the south gateway of Taman Negara Endau Rompin. In N. Sembilan, the orang asli villages have good road accessibility because of the rubber plantation activities. Still, micro hydro may serve best as alternative energy sources in the future especially for agricultural and plantation sector. This was realized during the site stream exploration, where most of the agricultural areas and plantations such as oil palm and rubber plantations were located at the foothill of the hilly regions and most of the identified streams for micro hydro s were flowing through these sites. Micro hydro can also be additional energy sources supporting the current on-grid electricity supply to the orang asli villages in Bekok and Jelebu as this helps to reduce the transmission losses. Micro hydro is also suitable to be integrated with water supply system. The upper streams may be utilized for electricity and then later diverted for water supply. Such scheme was identified in Chembong sites where Sg. Batu Hampar will be used for water supply. The construction work for the water supply at the stream is in progress. This stream was identified as one of the potential streams for micro hydro in N. Sembilan. Details on the site exploration in the Kenaboi Region, N. Sembilan are described in the paper by Nathan and Ibrahim [24].

9 362 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein Table 5: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Negeri Sembilan No Stream Name Site Location 1 Sg. Temalai 2 Sg. Kering 3 Sg. Gemansir 4 Sg. Papan 5 Sg. Jelebu 6 Sg. Jenam 7 Sg. Luat 8 Sg. Bendol Orang Asli village of Kg. Gelang, Jelebu Orang Asli village of Kg. London, Jelebu Jeram Toi waterfall, Jelebu Felcra Ulu Jelebu, K.Klawang Felcra Ulu Jelebu, K.Klawang Felcra Ulu Jelebu,K.Klawang Orang Asli village of Kg.Langkap, Tg.Ipoh Kg.Ulu Bendul, Terachi Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s Sg. Berlubang Kg.Bendul, Terachi Sg. Ayer Sejok 11 Sg. Sikai 12 Sg. Jumbang 13 Sg.Mungkal 14 Sg. Kendong 15 Sg. Batu Hampar Kg.Solok Paku, Terachi Kg. Bukit, Seri Meranti Kg.Jumbang, Seri Meranti Kg.Mungkal, Gadong,Kota Kg.Ulu Kendong, Kendong, Gadong, Kota Kg.Empat Batu, Chembong Sg. Pedas Kg.Ulu Pedas, Pedas Sg.Ulu Nuri Kg.Betong, Tampin Possible Energy, Alternative Off Alternative Off, 4.2. Central Region of Peninsular Malaysia In the central region, 2 micro hydro potential sites were identified in Selangor and 26 sites identified in Pahang. The identified sites in Selangor and Pahang are shown in Table 6 and 7 respectively. From the map studies, the hilly region in Selangor was found only along the west side of Titiwangsa range covering Gombak, Ulu Langat, and Ampang. Since most of these places are well developed including the orang asli settlements near Ulu Langat and Gombak, it was found that there is no significant need for micro hydro. However, 2 sites are suitable for alternative off grid s supply. The sites were Gabai waterfall in Ulu Langat and Taman Rimba Templer in Gombak. These places are famous tourist attraction and the basic facilities are supported with electricity supplied by TNB. Since both sites have good terrain characteristics, micro hydro scheme of high heads with very low flow are possible to be developed here for electricity. There will be no environmental effect on the waterfall as micro hydro if installed, will be of high head scheme, thus only small portion of the waterfall water will be diverted for power. The tourist can still enjoy the greenery and waterfall and utilize the eco-friendly power. The tourism department of Malaysia may have good opportunity to utilize this freely available green energy and save electricity cost in the long run.

10 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 363 Table 6: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Selangor No Stream Name Site Location Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s 1 Sg.Gabai Gabail waterfall Sg. Chul Tinggi Taman Rimba Templer Possible Energy grid grid In Pahang, 13 sites identified were along the East of Titiwangsa range covering Bentong, Kuala Lipis, and Cameron Highland. 2 sites were identified suitable for micro hydro along Tahan range covering 2 sites in Temerloh and 1 site at the tip of East Coast range covering Kuantan. There were also 8 sites identified in Tioman Island. Along the hilly region of east Titiwangsa range of Pahang, 9 sites were identified suitable for off and 4 sites as alternative off grid s. From the map studies, 5 sites were identified in Kuala Lipis and 4 sites in Cameron Highland. These sites are near the orang asli settlements which are far inside the jungle and only accessible by helicopter or jungle trekking. Data provided by Department of Orang Asli Affairs of Malaysia (JHEOA), shows that the areas occupied by the orang asli and some of the nearby villages do not have proper electricity supply. With availability of high heads and streams flowing all year round near the villages, micro hydro could be their best option for off grid electric in a sustainable way. As for alternative off, 3 sites were identified in Bentong and 1 site in Cameron Highland. From the study carried out, these sites have easy access and may have electricity supply. During site exploration in Bentong, 3 sites were found to have electricity supply from TNB. Since the terrain characteristics of these areas were found to have high heads with good all year round flowing streams, micro hydro as alternative off grid s are feasible here. The 2 sites identified in Temerloh may be suitable for electricity supply to orang asli village of Kg. Mentuh and the elephant training centre of Kuala Gandah. From the map study conducted on Kg. Damak and Kg. Penderas, these 2 sites are located far inside the jungle but still with motor-able track accessibility. With this accessibility, the sites may have grid connected electricity supply, but still micro hydro may serve as an alternative off- in the future. Both sites have high heads supported by all year round flowing streams of Sg. Galung and Sg. Rangit. In Tioman Island, there were 8 sites identified to provide off to the villages. Currently, the island is supported by diesel generators which are rather expensive and practicing unsafe diesel delivery method. There is a mini hydro power plant of Sg. Mentawak but was not in operation due to technical problem [25]. This stream is also suitable for micro hydro. The existing plant may need to be re-sized for micro hydro which will greatly reduce the installation cost. All the sites were feasible for micro hydro because the island have good terrain characteristics with Mount Kajang and Seperuk and plenty of streams flowing all round year through these hilly places. At the tip of east coast range, 1 site was identified near the famous waterfall of Jerangkang. The waterfall has very high head and small amount of the rivers flow, capable of providing micro hydro for alternative off for the recreation park.

11 364 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein Table 7: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Pahang No Stream Name 1 Sg.Tampik 2 Sg.Sum Sum 3 Sg.Leba 6 Sg.Galung 7 Sg.Rangit 8 Sg.Jerangkan g 9 Sg.Sempar 10 Sg.Senuh 11 Sg.Betau 12 Sg. Sinderut 13 Sg. Rungak 14 Sg. Air Besar 15 Sg.Lalang 16 Sg.Paya 17 Sg.Nipah and Sg.Seriah 18 Sg.Keliling 19 Sg.Mentawak 20 Sg.Asah 21 Sg.Raya 22 Sg. Terisu 23 Sg.Menlock Site Location Kg.Ceringing Hulu, Janda Baik Kg. Sum Sum, Janda Baik Orang Asli village of Kg. Sg.Leba Orang asli Kg. Mentuh, Jenderak Pusat latihan Gajah Kuala Gandah Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrat em 3 /s Jerangkang waterfall Orang asli Kg.Titum, Hulu Jelai Orang asli Kg. Kuala Besuk, Hulu Jelai Orang asli Kg.Cerung, Hulu Jelai Orang asli Kg.Sinderut, Hulu Jelai Orang asli Kg.Shean, Hulu Jelai Kg.Tekek, Tioman island Kg.Lalang, Tioman island Kg.Paya, Tioman island Tg.Nipah, Tioman island Kg.Juara, Tioman island Kg.Juara, Tioman island Kg. Asah, Tioman island Kg.Mukut, Tioman island Pos Terisu, orang asli settlement Kg.Teji, Pos Telanuk, Ringlet Sg.Bertik Kg.Rening, Ringlet Sg.Cai Kg.Renglas, Pos Telanuk, Ringlet Sg.Kelow Pos Mensun, Ringlet Possible Energy grid grid grid Alternative Off grid Connection Connection 4.3. Northern Region of Peninsular Malaysia In the northern region, 34 sites were identified in Perak, 5 sites in Kedah, 10 sites in Kelantan and 3 sites in Terengganu. There was no site in P. Pinang and Perlis suitable for micro hydro because of less suitable terrain characteristics. Moreover, almost all the areas were well developed with

12 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 365 electricity and there is little or no necessity for generating electricity from micro hydro scheme. Table 8 shows the identified sites in Perak. Table 8: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Perak No Stream Name Site Location Catchmen t Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s 1 Sg.Bekut Kg.Baharu Kinjang Sg.Kinchan Kg.Baharu Kinjang Sg.Kinjang Kg.Kinjang Sg.Ijok Kg.Kinjang Sg.Mut Kg.Keding Sg.Bersih 7 Sg.Kerok Pos Bersih (Orang asli settlement) Pos Jerenang (Orang asli settlement) Sg.Behrang Kg.Tengah Sg.Perah Kg.Tengah Sg.Palapala m Sg.Lengko k Sg.Batu Sepuloh Sg.Ayer Busok Kg.Semai (Orang asli settlement) Kg.Semai (Orang asli settlement) Kg.Batu Sepuloh (Orang asli settlement) Ladang Orang asli Sg.Bot Kg.Bot Edit,Tapah Sg.Gedong 16 Sg.Chalir 17 Sg.Selim 18. Sg.Kampar Sg.Ulu Kampar Sg.Ayer Itam Pos Bekau, Gedong, Bidor Kg.Sedor, Pos Selim, Simpang Pulai Pos Selim, Simpang Pulai Kg.Jantong, Pos Atap, Kampar Pos Atap, Kampar Kg.Ayer Itam, Batu Kurau Sg.Teras Kg.Ulu Teras, Selama Sg.Tebing Tinggi Sg. Lata Puteh Kg. Kelian Gunong, Selama Kg.Kelian Gunong,Selama Sg. Perwor Pos Perwor Sg.Penduk 26. Sg.Kernam Kg.Pendeg, S.Siput (Orang asli settlement) Kg.Kernam (Orang asli settlement) Possible Energy grid grid grid grid grid grid grid grid grid grid grid Off grid grid grid grid grid

13 366 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein 27. Sg.Hidup 28. Sg.Mu 29. Sg.Gebul 30. Sg.Jeliung Kg.Dawai (Orang asli settlement) Orang asli settlement along Sg.Mu Pusat Latihan pertanian, Manong Kg.Jeliung Baharu. Manong Sg.Serai Kg.Kelik, Sg.Siput Sg.Dindap Pos Piah Sg.Luat Kg.Talong Sg.Dang Lang Kg. Dang Lang Ulu grid grid grid grid grid Out of 34 sites in Perak, 30 sites were identified along the west of Titiwangsa range covering Chendriang, Tanjung Malim, Tapah, Gopeng, Kampar, Kuala Kangsar and Lenggong. Another, 4 sites were identified along Bintang range covering Larut. Along the hilly region of West Titiwangsa range of Perak, 14 sites were identified as suitable for off and 16 sites as alternative off grid s. For the off grid s, 4 sites were identified in Tanjung Malim, 2 sites in Tapah, 2 sites in Kampar, 1 site in Lenggong and 5 sites in Kuala Kangsar. From the reconnaissance study carried out, all these sites are located near the orang asli settlements of Pos Bersih, Pos Jerenang, Pos Bekau, Pos Atap, Pos Piah, Pos Perwor, Pos Yom, Pos Legap and Fort Ber. Although all the sites are far inside the jungle, they are accessible by motor-able track via 4 wheel drive. From the map studies and hydrology studies, these sites are suitable for micro hydro because of the good terrain characteristics and availability of perennial streams within the orang asli settlements. All the sites identified have high heads i.e. almost 100m except for Pos Perwor and Fort Ber. Although Pos Perwor and Fort Ber have medium heads of about 60m, the bigger streams of Sg. Perwor and Sg. Mu maybe able to compensate for the lower heads in providing adequate available power, but of course with additional installation cost compared to high head schemes. Since most of the sites identified are located far inside the jungle, probably there is no electricity supply from the grid, thus electricity from micro hydro schemes would be a realistic hope for the orang asli settlements to improve their quality of life. As for alternative off, 4 sites were identified in Chendriang, 1 site in Tanjung Malim, 4 sites in Tapah, 2 sites in Gopeng, 3 sites in Kuala Kangsar and 2 sites in Lenggong. 2 sites in Chendriang of Sg. Bekut and Sg. Kinchan may serve as alternative electricity sources for the mining activities there. 4 sites in Tapah located along Tapah Cameron Highland road and these sites are suitable for alternative electricity for the orang asli settlements. The sites in Gopeng, Lenggong, Tanjung Malim, and Kuala Kangsar may serve as alternative for the nearby villages. These sites were considered because of the good terrain characteristics in providing high head with reliable water source from the streams. As for hilly region of Bintang range, the 4 sites in Larut area may serve as alternative off grid in the future for the nearby villages. Good terrain characteristics, availability of perennial streams and easy accessibility made the sites worth considering for micro hydro schemes in the future. In Kedah, 1 site in Baling, 2 sites in Langkawi island and 1 site in Sik were predicted to have micro hydro capability but only as alternative off. This is because all the nearby villages have electricity supplied by TNB. The installation cost would be cheap as the sites have high heads and are easily accessible. Table 9 shows the identified sites in Kedah.

14 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 367 Table 9: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Kedah No Stream Name Site Location Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s 1 Sg.Tawar Besar Kg.Tawau Besar Sg.Pegong Kg.S.Limau Sg. Ayer Langkat Durian Perangin Sg.Perangin Teluk Burau Sg.Temurun Teluk Tok Manap Possible Energy grid grid grid grid grid In Kelantan, 10 sites are suitable for micro hydro along East Titiwangsa range covering Gua Musang. Table 10 shows the identified sites. 9 of the sites may serve as off grid s and 1 site as alternative off grid. The 9 sites are suitable for providing electricity to orang asli settlement of Pos Gob, Pos Belatim, Pos Brook, Fort Ber, and Fort Hau. These settlements are located far inside the jungle and only accessible by jungle trekking or helicopter. From the map studies conducted, the hilly region in these areas referred to as Mount Chamah, Samoh Hill, Perahat Hill, Batu Papan Hill, Serawok Hill, Sebor Hill, and Perawas Hill were found to have good terrain characteristics and good catchment areas. These sites have high heads and year round streams near the orang asli settlements. These three factors made micro hydro schemes feasible. The micro hydro schemes may improve the quality of live for the orang asli settlements significantly. Table 10: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Kelantan No Stream Name Site Location 1 Sg.Bertak 2 Sg.Chegeruk 3 Sg. Toy 4 Sg.Balar Pos Gob, Bertam (orang asli settlement) Pos Belatim, Bertam (orang asli settlement) Kg.K.Layang, Bertam (orang asli settlement) Kg.K Balar, Bertam (orang asli settlement) Catchme nt Area, km 2 Flowrat em 3 /s Sg.Nya Katok Batu Mines Sg.Serawok 7 Sg.Setog 8 Sg.Arik 9. Sg.Perges 10 Sg.Talong Pos Brook, Nenggiri (orang asli settlement) Fort Ber (orang asli settlement) Kg.K.Telur (orang asli settlement) Kg.Perges,Bertam (orang asli settlement) Fort Hau,Bertam (orang asli settlement) Possible Energy grid The site of Sg. Nya was found to be an option for alternative off grid to the Katok Batu mine mining company. Since the site is near Gua Musang town, it provides easy accessibility and equipment transportation, thus will greatly reduce the installation cost of a micro hydro scheme. With

15 368 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein available head of 80m and average flow of 0.19m 3 /hrs, the estimated available power of 89 in this site could be utilized by the Katok mine mining company. In Terengganu, 2 sites were identified in Besut and 1 site in Dungun. Table 11 shows the identified sites in Terengganu. All these 3 sites were found along East of Titiwangsa range. The 2 sites in Besut would be suitable as alternative off grid as the villages near the sites are well developed with good accessibility and electricity. The Sg. Bangan site in Dungun may serve as off grid to Kg. Pasir Raja. From the map studies, this site is accessible with motor-able track but is located in remote area. With high head and large catchment area of 19km 2, the site promise good and economical development of micro hydro scheme. Even though these places may have grid connected electricity supply, still micro hydro schemes may contribute to lower energy cost. Table 11: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Terengganu No. Stream Name Site Location Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s Possible Energy 1 Sg.Peng Kg.Bogil grid 2 Sg.Tadau Kg.Bogil grid 3 Sg.Bangan Kg.Pasir Raja Sabah In Sabah, the hilly regions are found only at inner part of Sabah. Due to this topography characteristic the most populated part of Sabah are located at low areas toward the coast. However there were some settlements found near the medium size streams which may has low head micro hydro potential and worth for further site survey. Effort to identify high head micro hydro potential in Sabah were then concentrated on foothill of the Crocker, Maitland, Witti, and Brassey ranges. From the topography studies of these hilly regions, most of the streams were found flowing in between two steep valleys, resulting in possible difficult diversion if micro hydro systems are to be installed. This factor had further reduced micro hydro potential in Sabah. Still, within the foothill of the ranges above, 18 sites were identified in Sabah. Table 12 shows the identified sites in Sabah. The estimated micro hydro potential is 3182.

16 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 369 Table 12: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Sabah No Stream Name Site Location Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s Possible Energy 1 Sg. Labang Kg.Labang Sg. Pangaraan Kg.Pangaraan Sg.Pohon Satu Kg.Pohon Satu Sg.Bamban Kg.Bamban Alternative grid 5 Sg. Matang Long Pasia Sg.Logan Kg.Maligan Sg.Lalang Kg.Lalang Sg.Nilumuyuh Kg. Nilumuyuh Sg.Autok Kg.Autok Sg. Maruntian Kg.Masugi Sg.Masugi 1 Kg.Masugi Sg.Masugi Kg.Katuan Sg.Kabibi Kg.Lipasu, grid Kundasang 14 Sg. Matopang Kg.Miruru grid 15 Sg.Kapuakan Kg.Manggis grid 16 Sg.Langanan Kg.Poring, grid 17 Sg.Tuaran Kg.Ratau Penilau Sg.Susui Kg.Susui, Tongo Sarawak grid In Sarawak, there are a lot of native people settlements found far inside jungle with very limited accessibility. Helicopter, rivers and logging road are the only access to these villages. From the map studies, it was found that most of these villages located along the swamp area, river bank and lowland area having elevation below 600m surrounded by secondary forest. Unfortunately, with these topography characteristic, the micro hydro potential for high head scheme was found not suitable. Although there were plenty source of water flowing from stream nearby the native settlements, it was only found suitable for low head and large flow micro hydro scheme. This type of scheme was not in the scope of the present study and therefore was not considered. However, there are some settlements found lies at foothill of a mountain or hill more than 600m elevation having sufficient flow of water and elevation for high head and low flow micro hydro scheme. Considering for high head scheme, 22 sites were identified suitable for micro hydro. Table 13 shows the identified sites in Sarawak.

17 370 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein Table 13: Identified Micro Hydropower Potential Sites in Sarawak No Stream Name Site Location 1 Sg.Semapuh Kg.Sebako Ulu, Lundu Catchment Area, km 2 Flowrate, m 3 /s Sg.Ulu Pasir Kg.Ulu Paris, Lundu Sg.Ulu Sebako Kg.Sebako Ulu, Lundu Possible Energy grid grid grid grid 4 Sg.Ulu Jangkar Kg.Jantan, Lundu Sg.Banga Long Banga, Marudi Sg.Long Puak Long Puak. Marudi Sg.Long Salt Long Salt, Marudi Sg.Tik Long Pa Tik, Marudi Sg.Beruang Long beruang, Marudi Sg.Mare Long Julan, Marudi Sg.Lio Matoh Sg.Lio Matoh, Marudi Sg.Mabong Rumah Baran Sg.Bangan Long Lidam, Belaga Sg.Long Malim Long Malim, Belaga Sg.Long Malim 1 Long Malim, Belaga Sg.Long Kg. Lom, Teliagan, Telinggan Lawas Sg.Punang Trusan Kg. Punang, Lawas Sg.Silou Long Sukang. Lawas Sg.Berayong Punang Berayong, Lawas Sg.Saman Kg.Putih, Lawas Sg.Tugo Long Tuyo, Lawas Sg.Maragong Kg.Longuban Alternative grid The identified sites were along the Kelingkang, Kapuas Hulu, Hose, Iran, and Tama Abu range covering Kuching, Miri, Kampit and Limbang. The estimated micro hydro potential is Conclusion As a conclusion, from the reconnaissance study, a total of 149 sites having an estimated micro hydro potential of 28.9MW were identified in Malaysia. The sites were identified based on terrain characteristics and accessibility. Only streams with high head i.e. above 50m were considered in this study. For all the sites identified, suggestions were also made on the use of micro hydro as the main source of energy supply or as alternative off grid. However, the energy demand for micro hydro was found not significant in Malaysia as most of these regions are well electrified. Still, micro hydro may serve as alternative off-grid electricity in future for most sites amid rising electricity cost.

18 Reconnaissance Study to Identify Micro Hydro Potential Sites in Malaysia 371 Acknowledgement The authors would like to thank the Ministry of Science Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Malaysia for funding this research. (Science Fund Project No.: SF0035). References [1] J.K.Kaldellis, The Contribution of Small Hydro Powerstations to the Electricity Generation in Greece: Technical and Economic Considerations, Energy Policy Journal,Volume 35, pg , [2] Yilmaz Aslan, Oguz Arslan, Celal Yasar, A Sensitivity Analysis for the Design of Small Scale Hydropower Plant. Kayabogazi Case Study. Renewable Energy Article, April [3] The Asean Association for the Promotion of Co (COGEN ASEAN), Background Report, Overview Instruments for the Promotion of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in Malaysia, [4] Thahirah Syed Talal, Pat Bodger, The Development of Electricity Supply Industry in Malaysia, Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) Graduate Student Conference on Research and Development, [5] Luqman Chuah A., and Fakhru l Razi A., Mini Hydro Power Generation As A Renewable Energy Source Under Malaysia s Energy Policy, The Ingenieur, Vol.44, Dec 2009-Feb 2010, Pg [6] Pusat Tenaga Negara (PTM), National Energy Balance Report, Malaysia, [7] Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), TNB Report 2008, 2008 [8] Daily Express, Micro Hydro Power Best Rural Option: Dompok, July 28, 2009., [9] Adrian Lasimbang, Micro Hydro Power: Brings Lights to Remote Villages in Borneo, PACOS Trust, [10] The Intermediate Technology Development Group (ITDG), Micro-Hydro Power, [11] N.C. Domingo; F.V. Ferraris, R.R Del Mundo, Overview of Mini and Small Hydropower in Southeast Asia, GRIPP Knowledge Center, EC-ASEAN Green Independent Power Producer Network. [12] M.R. Noumi, S.C. Mullic and T.C. Kandpal, Techno-economics of Micro Hydro Projects in Decentralized Power Supply in India, Journal on Energy Policy, Elsevier, Volume 34, Issue 10, July [13] R. Muhida, A. Mostavan. W. Sujatmiko, M. Park, K. Matsuura, The 10 Years Operation of a PV Micro Hydro Hybrid System in Taratak, Indonesia, Journal of Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, Volume 67, Issues 1-4, March [14] M. Thornbloom, D. Ngbangadia and M. Assama, Using Micro Hydro in the Zairian Village, Journal of Solar Energy, Volume 59, Issues 103, January-March [15] Layman, Layman s Guidebook on How to Develop a Small Hydro Site, Second Edition. European Small Hydropower Association (ESHA), [16] Philip Hurst, Rainforest Politics, Ecological Destruction in South-East Asia, Zeds Books, London [17] Ministry of Science, Technology and the Environment, Assessment of Biological Diversity in Malaysia, [18] Banjaran di Malaysia, [19] Luo Gaorong & Miao Qiubo, A Manual of Reconnaissance Study for Micro Hydro Power Development, Hangzhou Regional Centre (Asia Pacific) For Small Hydro [20] Rainfall Data and Daily Evaporation Data from Period of , Jabatan Meteorology Malaysia.

19 372 Nathan Raman and Ibrahim Hussein [21] Allen R. Inversin, Micro Hydropower Sourcebook, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) International Foundation, Washington D.C, [22] Renewable and Electrical Energy Division, Natural Resources Canada, Micro Hydropower systems:a Buyer s Guide, Government of Canada, Canada, [23] Nathan Raman, Ibrahim Hussein, Kumaran Palanisamy, Micro Hydro Potential in West Malaysia, 3rd International Conference on Energy and Environment 2009 (ICEE2009), 7-8 December 2009, Melaka. [24] Nathan Raman, Ibrahim Hussein, Micro hydro Potential at Sg. Kering, Kenaboi Region, Jelebu, N. Sembilan, International Seminar on Advances in Renewable Energy Technology (ISARET2009), April 2009, UNITEN. [25] Zahirah Long and Dato Ir.Aishah Lawatan Kepulauan Mersing Dan Pulau Tioman. Tenagawan, ISSN No /Jilid 37/Bil 57, pg 10, Julai 2008.