Evaluación del potencial de aprovechamiento energético en la provincia de Loja a través de estructuras de generación hidroeléctrica a pequeña escala

Abstract

Abstract: The Ecuadorian State has a great water diversity, suitable for the implementation of hydroelectric projects that help to supply the energy demand in the country. However, the access to electricity is limited in rural zones or remote areas of the National Interconnected System (NIS). In that case, the objective of this work was to evaluate small-scale hydropower sites in the province of Loja, optimizing public infrastructure, such as irrigation and pressure systems. To achieve this aim, three stages were carried out: data collection in the field, analysis of the theoretical potential that could be used in the cantons analyzed and realization of an energy inventory of the points of interest. The evaluation of the energetic potential, showed the usable water level in the whole province of Loja, by optimizing existing civil resources. Besides, the energetic and topographic characteristics of the sites studied allowed us to recommend the possible generation medium (turbine) that is coupled to the civil works observed. The optimization of water resources through small-scale structures secure the future change in Ecuador's energy matrix.