Estimating Flow, Hydraulic Geometry, and Hydrokinetic Power at Ungauged Locations in Canada

Abstract

A resource assessment of the hydrokinetic potential in Canada's rivers was completed. The main objectives of the study were to (1) quantify the potential hydrokinetic energy avail- able for development both nationally and regionally, and (2) develop geospatial datasets identifying streams or areas of high hydrokinetic potential. Flow estimates at ungauged locations were found using multiple linear regression coupled with Canonical correlation analysis (MLR-CCA). Total theoretical hydro power, equivalent to total theoretical hydroki- netic power was calculated using these ow estimates and hydraulic head estimates from DEMs. It is estimated that there are 710 GW of potential power in Canadian rivers, with 97.5% con dence that there is at least 433 GW. Downstream hydraulic geometry (DHG) relations were applied to ow estimates to nd cross section velocity and power at ungauged locations. Further testing was done on DHG relations, and were found to be most accurate when characterized by soil drainage characteristics.