Notes on design of hydroelectric power stations (with reference to the influence of load-factor)

Hydroelectric power plants are designed with the ultimate object of being producers of wealth. All factors which have any bearing on fixed charges, cost of operation, or sale of power, must be considered. At the time of designing, operating conditions cannot be known definitely and such factors as amount and distribution of load can be considered only in a general way. This is one difference between most water-power and steam stations. When the plant is in operation, conditions of load are constantly undergoing change. It is therefore generally impossible to design a system for fixed conditions, and provision must be made for a certain flexibility of operation and for future growth. Also, costs vary widely in different places and are confidential.