Hydropower can be a source of sustainable energy, provided environmental considerations are taken into account and economic aspects of hydropower design are appropriately addressed. Using concrete-lined pressure tunnels instead of steel pipes may be economically attractive but may also have limitations due to the low tensile strength of concrete.

Cracking in concrete tunnel linings can lead to loss of energy production, extensive repairs, and even accidents. One of the techniques available to improve the bearing capacity of pressure tunnels is through prestressing the concrete lining by...