Water power

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Micro

A micro hydro plant is below 100kW. Improvements in small turbine and generator technology mean that micro hydro schemes are an attractive means of producing electricity. Useful power may be produced from even a small stream. The likely range is from a few hundred watts (possibly for use with batteries) for domestic schemes, to a minimum 25kW for commercial schemes.

Hydro power requires the source to be relatively close to the site of power usage, or to a suitable grid connection. Hydro systems can be connected to the main electricity grid, or as a part of a stand-alone (off-grid) power system. In a grid connected system, any electricity generated in excess of consumption on site can be sold to electricity companies.

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In an off-grid hydro system, electricity can be supplied directly to the devices powered, or via a battery bank and inverter set up. Allowances should be made for any seasonal variations in water flow, which can affect the amount of electricity delivered to the system i.e. having a back up power system.

It is possible for single households with a mains connection located near a hydro source to install a micro hydro system. They can go 'off the grid' entirely, or stay connected and sell excess electricity to the grid. The capital cost is high, but the prospect of zero or even negative electricity bills may tempt you!

Provided the resource is there, community hydro projects can also be a viable proposition. Potentially, there are great benefits in clubbing together to increase buying power or sharing expertise - although the work involved should not be underestimated.

  Energy available in a body of water depends on the amount of water flowing per second, and the height (or head) that the water falls. The scheme's actual output will depend on how efficiently it converts the power of the water into electrical power (maximum efficiencies of over 90% are possible, but for small systems 50% is more realistic). Hydro electric systems are generally divided into 2 categories, low and high head.

  This will depend on the resource available and your energy needs. For houses with no mains connection, but with access to a micro-hydro site, a good hydro system can generate a steady, more reliable electricity supply than other renewable technologies at a lower cost. Total system costs can still be high, but often less than the cost of a grid connection, and with no electricity bills to follow. Note that in off-grid applications the power is used for lighting and electrical appliances, however space and water heating can be supplied when available power exceeds demand.

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