Small-Scale Hydropower
What is it?
Hydropower, or hydro-electric power, uses moving water to generate electricity.
How does it work?
Flowing water creates kinetic energy. To produce hydropower, water from a stream, or river is diverted through a turbine. The turbine is connected to a generator, which converts the energy of the moving water into electricity.
The level of power that can be generated is dependent upon the rate of water flow, which in turn is related to:
- The distance the water falls (the ‘head’)
- The volume of water available
- The efficiency of power conversion.
Requirements of a micro hydropower scheme include:
- Good rainfall and catchment area
- Adequate flow or pressure
- A water intake above a weir or damn and an outflow
- A water transport system
- A flow control system
- A turbine and generator
Who is it suitable for?
Micro-turbines are only suitable for areas that have a watercourse with fast flowing water. Small-scale hydro schemes can supply electricity directly to the electricity grid for use in any sector, or can be used to supply power to commercial properties, homes, etc. Micro schemes can be used to charge batteries or as a back up in place of a diesel generator. Small hydro is particularly suited to rural areas.
Benefits
- No atmospheric emissions during operation
- Once in operation, the energy source is free
- Quiet and non obtrusive
- Minimal environmental impacts of operation or decommissioning
- Reliable machinery and plant – weirs and water channels last a long time if maintained, and plant has a life-span of 15 to 20 years.
- Can improve water quality through improved oxygenation
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