Comparative analysis of the energy explotation potential of the Kokra river section

Exploitation of hydropower energy in Slovenia represents a significant share in securing the power supply, produced from renewable energy sources (RES). Most of this energy is obtained by hydropower plants in the major Slovenian rivers, but part of production goes to smaller units, or so-called small hydropower plants (SHPs). Many river in Slovenia are appropriate for SHPs. One of these, with high hydropower potential, is Kokra. In the present work options of hydropower uses on the selected section of the river Kokra are described. SMART Mini-Idro program was used to analyze the production of electric energy. Two implementation options of SHPs are presented, considering the penstock, together with the available amount of water. First implementation option addresses the energy use of the entire section, using one SHP with long penstock.Use of multiple SHPs with short penstock is given in the second implementation option. Spatial data and considered penstock length were used to determine the locations of SHPs. Considering the size of the catchments and ecologically acceptable flow, available amount of water for each sampling site was calculated. A comparative analysis of both options is also given