Assessing the Sustainability of Small Hydropower Locations in the Citarum Watershed: A Novel Approach Utilizing CA-Markov and SWAT Models

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the sustainability of potential locations for small hydropower in the Citarum Watershed, with a specific focus on future water supply, erosion, and sedimentation. The research introduces a novel methodology that integrates the CA-Markov model with IDRISI TerrSet software alongside SWAT to predict and evaluate the implications of land use changes on hydropower sustainability. By combining land use prediction models with hydrological tools, the study offers a holistic understanding of the environmental impact of small hydropower projects. The scope of the investigation is confined to the Citarum Watershed, a region characterized by diverse geographical, climatic, and socio-economic factors. However, the insights garnered from this study are anticipated to provide valuable guidance for sustainable hydropower development strategies in similar regions worldwide. Through this innovative approach, the manuscript contributes to the growing body of knowledge on renewable energy development and environmental conservation in hydrologically sensitive areas.