Capacity and Benefit-Cost Relation for Concrete Gravity and RCC Dams

Abstract

The relationship between capacity and total net benefit of concrete gravity and roller compacted concrete (RCC) dams is investigated using benefit-cost analyses. The total capital cost of such dams is equal to the summation of costs of construction, engineering and consultancy services, right of way, and relocation of structures. Operation, maintenance and repair costs are considered as the annual costs during the service life of the structure. Implementation of dams may lead to the achievement of several benefits, such as meeting municipal water demand, irrigation, hydropower, navigation, flood mitigation, water quality control, wildlife and recreational facilities, and positive impacts on the environment. In a case study, benefit-cost analyses have been carried out for 144 different concrete gravity and RCC dam alternatives that can be implemented at Cine Dam site, Turkey. Stability analyses have also been conducted for the proposed alternatives. The information obtained through this study can be used in decision-making for optimum size and type of a gravity dam.