Development of Hydro-Electric Power as an Aid to Irrigation

Fundamentally, the economic feasibility of hydro-electric development in connection with an irrigation project presents the same problems for consideration and is governed by the same limiting factors as any other hydroelectric development, with the exception that certain additional restricting considerations are introduced in the case of the combined development. This paper discusses these restrictions and propounds three fundamental principles to govern the engineer in judging the feasibility of combination. Eight basic essentials for a successful hydro-electric power system, and the fields most appropriate for the use of power in connection with an irrigation project are presented. Supporting illustrations are drawn from the Salt River Project in Arizona. Six conclusions are listed at the end of the paper.