(a) Describe the factors which favour the development of hydro-electric power (HEP) resources (b) State the benefits of hydro-electric power supply to the p...

(a) Factors favouring the development of hydro-electric power (HEP)

• Large, steady supply of water: a big river with a high, reliable volume throughout the year, fed by heavy or well-distributed rainfall.
• A waterfall, rapids or steep gradient (or a narrow gorge for a dam) to provide the head and force of falling water.
• A suitable dam site - a narrow valley with a wide basin behind it to store water and hard, impermeable rock for a firm foundation.
• Availability of capital to finance the costly dam, turbines and transmission lines.
• Nearby market/demand for electricity from towns and industries, and the technical manpower to build and run it.

(b) Benefits of HEP supply to the people of Nigeria

• Provides cheaper, cleaner and renewable electricity for homes, offices and industries.
• Powers industrialisation, creating jobs and boosting the economy.
• Dams also aid irrigation, flood control, fishing, water supply and inland navigation, and create tourist/recreation sites.
• Improves the standard of living through lighting, refrigeration and modern services.

(c) Three major problems facing HEP development in Nigeria

• Seasonal fall in river levels: reduced water in the dry season lowers generation.
• Silting of reservoirs reduces storage capacity and dam efficiency.
• Shortage of capital and technical manpower, and high cost of maintenance, spare parts and long transmission lines (also displacement of people from flooded areas).