Hydro Power

Micro Hydro Power.

Hydro electricity involves the conversion of potential energy in water held at height to kinetic energy to turn a turbine and produce electricity.

Micro hydro is plant below 100kW.

Power output is proportional to the volume and rate at which the water flows (flow rate m³/s) and the distance the water falls (head m).

Micro Hydro - Specifications
Type of system There are four stages to a hydro scheme: Water intake Water delivery Power generation (a.c. electricity) Electricity distribution Turbine selection is important (Pelton wheel, Francis turbine, Propeller turbine).
System Costs Small d.c. generators for battery charging, 1kW =£10,000 to 15,000
Energy savings 10,000kWh/yr
More information Guide to UK mini hydro developments by the British Hydropower Association www.microhydropower.net www.british-hydro.org