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Hydro Power

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

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