Beko-Abo Multipurpose Project Pre-Feasibility Study Summary
Project Overview
The Beko-Abo Multipurpose Project is a major infrastructure initiative in Ethiopia focusing on hydropower generation, irrigation, and other water resource management objectives. The pre-feasibility study was conducted by NORPLAN, NORCONSULT, EDF, and Scott Wilson JV in association with Shebelle Consult and Tropics Consulting Engineers.
Key Components
1. Dam Site and Type Selection (Annex 3F)
- Purpose: Identify best dam site and rank dam types by reservoir level
- Dam Types Considered:
- RCC gravity dam
- Arch dam in CVC
- Central earth core rockfill dam
- Asphaltic core rockfill dam
- Recommended Dam Site: Location identified in reconnaissance study near Beko-Abo Bridge
- Cost Comparison: RCC gravity dam has lowest cost for most scenarios
2. Power System and Transmission (Annex 3G)
- Transmission Options: 400 kV and 500 kV lines considered for power export to Sudan and Egypt
- Key Findings:
- 500 kV transmission solution is less costly than 400 kV
- Double-circuit line recommended with voltage control installations
- Proposed transmission distance: ~380 km to Sudan
- System Components:
Component Description Beko-Abo HPP Generator transformers, bays, cables, shunt reactors Switching Station Series compensation, shunt reactors Substation in Sudan Grid transformer, shunt reactors/capacitors, SVC
3. Surveying and Mapping (Annex 3H)
- Survey Activities:
- Establishment of 14 Ground Control Points (GCPs)
- River cross profile survey at 5 axes
- Water surface profile survey (3km upstream, 2km downstream)
- Equipment Used: ProMark3RTK GPS Receivers, Sokkia Total Stations
- Coordinate System: Adindan datum with UTM projection
Project Structure
| Volume | Content |
|---|---|
| Volume 1 | Main Report with Executive Summary |
| Volume 2 | Project Drawings (Civil works, equipment, transmission lines, etc.) |
| Volume 3 | Supporting Documents (13 technical annexes) |
| Volume 4 | Initial Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment |
Key Recommendations
- Adoption of RCC gravity dam for pre-feasibility study purposes
- 500 kV transmission system for power export to Sudan
- Further detailed studies recommended for final design decisions