Wha Ti Mini-Hydro Feasibility Study & Business Plan
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector
Energy
Project value$232,615
Project Type
Feasibility Study
Sub Sector
Renewable Energy Generation – Hydro
Grant amount$113,000
Program type
GMF
Municipality
Community Government of Whati, NT
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
543
Project timeline
2005 - 2011
Project number
5700
Description
The focus of this feasibility study is a 800 kilowatts to three megawatts community scale run-of-river hydro project that will effectively displace 95 per cent of the community’s diesel generated electricity and a portion of its oil and wood-based heating. The hydroelectric plant would meet all of Wha Ti’s electricity requirements over the next 20 years and would eliminate a significant portion of the harmful local air emissions associated with fossil fuel consumption. The study includes an environmental impact assessment, an examination of social issues, a site survey, a detailed engineering design/selection, costing estimates and the development of a business plan. Potential for Eco-Logo certification of the generating facility will be examined also. Community workshops will be organized to involve residents in the development process. The quality of life benefits related to the reduction of diesel engine operation, gasoline, wood and heating oil use and the introduction of a renewable green power source include a decrease in respiratory illnesses, a reduction in tainted food supplies, cleaner air, water and soil and an annual decrease of 1,370 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
Applicant
Community Government of Whati, NT