In the shadow of the Himalayas, a hydropower project faced a double whammy of natural disasters, and the lessons learned could reshape how energy projects are designed and built in high-risk regions. Chongjiang Du, a lead engineer at Tractebel Engineering Ltd. in Germany, has published a compelling case study in the Journal of Intelligent Construction, translated from Chinese as “Intelligent Construction Journal,” that offers critical insights into mitigating the impacts of earthquakes and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) on hydropower infrastructure.
The Upper Bhotekoshi Hydropower Project in Nepal experienced catastrophic damage within two consecutive years—first from a major earthquake, then from a GLOF. The project’s original design was insufficient to withstand these secondary hazards, prompting a thorough review and rehabilitation concept development. Du’s research highlights the importance of considering both near-field and far-field earthquakes, as well as the often-overlooked threat of GLOFs, which can exceed the probable maximum flood (PMF) levels typically accounted for in design standards.
“Unlike the term PMF suggested, GLOF is frequently larger than probable maximum flood (PMF),” Du explained. “This means that hydropower projects in regions prone to glacial lake outbursts must be designed with higher flood levels in mind to ensure structural integrity and safety.”
The study underscores the need for design considerations that improve structural resistance to these destructive events. By translating these findings into design criteria and specifications, engineers can better prepare hydropower projects for the realities of high seismic regions and GLOF risks. Du’s work also provides valuable reference for outburst floods from earthquake-formed barrier lakes or other landslide dams, broadening its applicability across various high-risk scenarios.
For the energy sector, the implications are significant. Hydropower projects in seismically active regions or near glacial lakes must incorporate these design considerations to minimize downtime, reduce repair costs, and ensure the safety of personnel and infrastructure. The commercial impact of such disasters can be devastating, with prolonged outages and rehabilitation efforts potentially costing millions. By adopting the recommendations outlined in Du’s research, developers can mitigate these risks and enhance the resilience of their projects.
As the energy sector continues to invest in hydropower, particularly in regions with high seismic and glacial activity, the lessons from this case study become increasingly relevant. Du’s work serves as a critical reminder that nature’s unpredictability demands innovative and adaptive engineering solutions. By integrating these insights into future projects, the industry can build more resilient infrastructure and secure a more sustainable energy future.
The research published in the Journal of Intelligent Construction offers a roadmap for improving the design and construction of hydropower projects in high-risk areas, ensuring they are better equipped to withstand the challenges posed by earthquakes and GLOFs. As the energy sector continues to evolve, these findings will undoubtedly shape the way projects are planned and executed, ultimately benefiting both investors and the environment.