The proposed Kabompo Gorge Hydroelectric Project is a reservoir scheme planned to provide base power to the Zambian grid. A reconnaissance study identified the potential for a hydroelectric plant at the gorge.

The current assignment is a feasibility study and tender design of the selected scheme. Four options are under consideration for the underground waterways and caverns; with different alignments, head- and tailrace lengths and cavern dimensions. The dam will be the same for all options with type, height and location determined by topography, geology and hydrology. The most likely dam type is a concrete arch dam of 75m height. A range of capacities, from 20MW to 40MW are also to be investigated to determine the most economical solution.


Key Features

• Remote site with difficult geology
• Influence of grid operation and characteristics
• Influence of regional power cost dynamics and politics