The water-energy nexus: Analysis of the water flow of the Coca Codo Sinclair Hydroelectric Project

Abstract

This article analyzes the interrelation between water and energy, taking as a case the analysis of the water flow of the Coca Codo Sinclair Hydroelectric Project. It investigates the case of this emblematic project, where the water used for consumption would decrease the inflow to the driving tunnel, which would risk its power generation capacity. A bibliographic research is used for this purpose. It is concluded that the Chalpi Grande project and the subsequent phases of the Ríos Orientales; and the Cayambe Pedro Moncayo irrigation projects and the Pesillo Imbabura potable water would reduce the inflow rate by up to 11% and, therefore, their energy production, demonstrating the need to plan the use of these resources considering their nexus.