Beko-Abo Multipurpose Project Pre-Feasibility Study Summary
Project Overview
The Beko-Abo Multipurpose Project is a major hydropower and water resource development initiative in Ethiopia, located on the Blue Nile River. The pre-feasibility study was conducted by NORPLAN and Norconsult in association with several consulting firms, with final reports delivered in May 2013.
Key Components
Dam Site and Type Selection (Annex 3F)
- Recommended dam site identified near Beko-Abo Bridge
- Four dam types evaluated: RCC gravity, arch, central earth core rockfill, and asphaltic core rockfill
- RCC gravity dam found most cost-effective for most reservoir levels
- Dam height approximately 270m with design flood of 24,000 m³/s
Power System and Transmission (Annex 3G)
- Installed capacity: 2080 MW (potential for export to Sudan and Egypt)
- Recommended transmission: 500 kV double-circuit line with 4 conductors per phase
- Transmission line route: Beko-Abo to Mandaya (200km) and to Debre Markos (60km)
- Includes switching stations and substations with voltage control equipment
Surveying and Mapping (Annex 3H)
- Ground control points established and tied to national control network
- Detailed topographic surveys of dam site and river profiles conducted
- Water surface profile surveyed 3km upstream and 2km downstream of dam site
- Cross-sections surveyed at five parallel axes near proposed dam location
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dam Height | ~270m |
| Design Flood | 24,000 m³/s |
| Check Flood (PMF) | 35,000 m³/s |
| Installed Capacity | 2080 MW |
| Transmission Voltage | 500 kV recommended |
| Transmission Distance | 200km to Mandaya, 60km to Debre Markos |
Project Structure
The pre-feasibility study is organized into four volumes:
- Volume 1: Main Report with executive summary
- Volume 2: Project Drawings (general, civil works, equipment, etc.)
- Volume 3: Supporting Documents (13 annexes covering technical studies)
- Volume 4: Initial Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment
Key Findings
- The recommended dam site offers favorable topographical conditions with a narrow valley
- RCC gravity dam is the most cost-effective solution for most reservoir levels
- 500 kV transmission system is recommended for power export to Sudan
- The project has significant potential for power generation and possible irrigation benefits
- Further detailed studies are recommended for final design and environmental assessment