The impact of climate change on Kaunas hydropower plant power production

Abstract

The analysis of the river flow and related meteorological factors has been carried out in the Nemunas river catchment in order to find out the impact of possible climate change on Kaunas hydroelectric plant (Kaunas HPP) power generation. The data of the 6 meteorological stations has been used to describe climatic situation in the catchment. Seasonal river flow tendencies have been reviewed based on the long term river flow measurements in the representatives gauging stations of the Nemunas basin. 5 of them were used to investigate mean annual flow tendencies. Relations have been analysed between Kaunas HPP electricity production and average flows (annual and seasonal). Statistical tests show a clear decrease in the time flow series of springtime and increase in power production during winter season. The main conclusion has been done that current global warming benefits hydropower generation in Lithuania.