Laserfiche WebLink
<br />The methodology of a feasibility study is similar to <br />that of a prefeasibility study; however, the simplistic <br />assumptions, estimating techniques, and rules of <br />thumb characteristic of the prefeasibility level are <br />discarded, and more rigorous and comprehensive <br />procedures are used. Hydrologic data for the entire <br />period of record is utilized to assess the hydropower <br />potential of the site. Actual cost data based on <br />material quantities and equipment quotations are used <br />in lieu of cost curves. The environmental, historic, <br />scenic, recreational, and related aspects of the project <br />are assessed on a preliminary basis. <br /> <br />Occasionally, subsequent events will alter a decision <br />to make an investment commitment; for example, <br />undiscovered site problems, foundation problems, <br />financing difficulties, unfavorable bids, etc. Nonethe- <br />less, a proper feasibility study should significantly <br />minimize the likelihood of unforeseen problems occur- <br />ring in the later stages of a project. <br /> <br />Feasibility study costs should range from about <br />$25,000 for a 1,000 k/w plant up to about $100,000 for <br />a 25,000 kW plant. If substantial dam repairs are <br />required or if a new dam is contemplated, these <br />figures should be increased accordingly. <br /> <br />Typically, the technical, economic, and environmental <br />factors shown in Table 3 on the following page are <br />addressed during feasibility level studies. The study <br />begins with the collection and review of existing data <br />about the site. All available material, such as Phase 1 <br />Dam Safety Reports, USGS topographic maps, flood <br />insurance studies, design drawings of existing <br />facilities, and geotechnical data, is collected and <br />assembled for later use. <br /> <br />26 <br />