FRIDAY, FEB 3, 2023: NOTE TO FILE

Module 4-12

Nano & Micro Hydro

Small floating generators are easy to install and can generate useful power for a small community

• New Low-Impact Technology opens up more sites

• Economics good down to small creeks feeding individual buildings

• Connection to local utility simple & important

• Siphon Intakes - No breaching of dams, draw water over banks

• Low Head systems down to 1 m @ 200 l/sec for 1 KW

• High Head Systems down to 50 m @ 3 l/sec for 1 KW

• Costs ~€3 to €15/Watt = payback of 3-20 years

Microhydro equipment can often be sourced from local industries

• Can use existing off-the-shelf motors for generators

• Low weight/kW = easily transported

• Robust - not easily damaged

• Low maintenance = low call-backs

Typical moderate sized installation

• Gilkes and Gordon Pelton wheel

• Head of 274.3m

• Turbine output – 350kva, delivering 280kw

• Auxiliary back up diesel generator

The village of Knoydart is in a remote part of the West of Scotland, where the hydroelectric system is their only source of electric power (more). However, with the greatly increased cost of electrical energy, small hydro projects are becoming increasingly viable.

If a settlement has access to the requirements for hydro at a reasonable cost, this is likely to be the best option for carbon neutral electrical power. Many remote mountainous regions have micro-hydro systems in remote villages.

 

Module 4, lesson 13

 

---

 

Back to Home Page