Quang Nam Hydroelectric Plants Manage Water Discharge Amid Heavy Rainfall
Three hydroelectric plants in Quang Nam province have initiated water discharge operations due to recent heavy rains, ensuring regional safety and regulatory compliance.
On February 24, the Quang Nam Meteorological Hydrology Center reported sporadic rain affecting the area, with winds from the North to Northeast reaching speeds of up to 6, gusting to 7. Over the following days, the region will continue to experience scattered rains, with warnings of possible heavy showers.
Given the adverse weather conditions, the companies operating hydroelectric plants have activated their water discharge protocols to manage reservoir levels efficiently. Sông Tranh 4 Hydroelectric Plant began discharging water at 8:30 AM on February 24, with forecasts estimating total discharge rates between 350 to 450 cubic meters per second. Of this, 298 cubic meters per second would come from two turbine generators, with the remaining 52 to 152 cubic meters per second exiting through spillways.
Meanwhile, Sông Tranh 2 Hydroelectric Plant also implemented discharge operations, with activities commencing at 9:00 AM on the same day and targeting spillway discharge rates ranging from 10 to 250 cubic meters per second, following stipulations set out in Procedure 1865.
Similarly, Đak Mi 4 Hydroelectric Plant joined the efforts, starting its operations at 4:30 AM on February 24, and it is expected to release 20 to 300 cubic meters per second to maintain reservoir safety and stability.
These coordinated discharges are not just precautionary; they are mandated under the national water management regulations, particularly Procedure 1865, enacted by the Prime Minister of Vietnam on December 23, 2019, to govern multi-reservoir operations along the Vu Gia – Thu Bồn River systems.
These actions are inherently linked to the broader climatic situation, as increased precipitation can raise water levels significantly, posing flooding risks. The hydroelectric sectors’ proactive measures stand to protect not only the facilities themselves but also the communities downstream who may be affected by rising river levels.
Local predictions indicate continued rainfall through February 25, prompting water management authorities to remain vigilant. Residents and local officials are advised to prepare for potential weather disruptions and do monitor rainfall patterns closely.
Notably, the discharge decisions reflect the blend of technological innovation and environmental stewardship being adopted throughout Vietnam’s energy sector, underscoring the commitment to balancing energy production needs with safety and sustainability.
With careful monitoring and adjustment, the hydropower plants aim to mitigate flooding risks effectively, proving the value of preemptive operational strategies and adherence to regulatory guidelines in severe weather events.
Preparedness and coordination among hydroelectric plants are imperative as they navigate the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns. These actions not only demonstrate adaptive management but highlight how modern infrastructure plays a role in resilience against natural climate variability.