Preliminary Site Survey

A preliminary survey replaces estimates with measured numbers — topography, hydrology and geology firm enough to size the scheme, choose a layout and cost it without major surprises during construction.

Flow is gauged with the method that fits the stream: bucket-and-stopwatch for small flows, the float or velocity-area method, a current meter, salt dilution for turbulent mountain streams, or a temporary measuring weir. A single measurement is not a hydrology, so gaugings are repeated — ideally across seasons and at minimum in the dry season — and correlated with rainfall-runoff modelling to build a flow duration curve. Head is measured with an engineer's level, a water-filled hose or a clinometer and tape, and the survey records profiles along the waterway, foundation conditions, flood marks and sediment.

• Topographic survey of all structure positions and profiles
• Flow gauging: bucket, float, current meter, salt dilution or weir
• Head measurement by level, hose or clinometer
• Repeat gaugings, ideally including the dry season
• Geology, flood level, sediment and access observations

What you receive: a survey report and drawings: site plan and profiles, the measured head, gauging records, a preliminary flow duration curve and dependable flow, geology and foundation notes, and a recommended layout.

• Mini & Micro Hydropower Site Assessment →
• Pre and Full Feasibility Study →
• Detailed Engineering Design (DED) & Bill of Quantity (BoQ) →
• Financial Analysis →
• All 16 Services →