Is Micro-Hydro the answer to our Energy Problems ?

With the apparent failure of the Ontario Wind Farm and Solar Micro-FIT Programs along with the catastrophic results of the Nuclear meltdown in Japan I'm starting to wonder if we are finally waking up to the fact that Hydro Energy is the Solution to our Energy problems.


Especially in a place like Ontario that has abundant water resources not to mention the fact that the earth's surface is mostly covered with the stuff.

Hydropower uses turbines to convert the energy of flowing water into electricity. Micro-hydro systems generate less than 100 kW and are usually “run of the river” operations that don't involve large dams or water storage reservoirs, so they generally create very little impact on the local ecosystem.

A simple micro-hydro system consists of:

1. An intake or weir that diverts water from the stream or river
2. A pipeline or canal that carries the water to the turbine : Plastic PVC Piping
3. A trash rack that filters out debris before water enters the turbine
4. A turbine (usually enclosed in a powerhouse) that converts the mechanical energy of falling water into electrical energy
5. A tailrace that brings the water back to the river or stream
6. Transmission lines that carry the electricity to its destination

The amount of energy you can capture depends on the flow rate (how much water flows per second) and the head (the vertical distance it falls). You'll need at least a year's worth of data on water flow to decide if it's worth installing a system at a particular site.

Depending on your needs and physical set-up, you can choose to install a stand-alone system or connect to the power grid. In either case, you'll need transmission lines to deliver the electricity to its destination.

Basic Numbers

According to the Integration of Renewable Energy on Farms website, a low or ultra-low head system costs $2,000-9,000 per kilowatt, installed. Most turbines have a life expectancy of at least 25 years.
Benefits, Drawbacks and Possible Pitfalls
Benefits:

* Reliable, proven technology
* Low operating and maintenance costs
* No emissions

Drawbacks:

* Water flow can be affected by seasonal changes and climate fluctuations
* Micro-hydro systems require regular maintenance: making sure the intake is not clogged, clearing out silt, checking for leaks, greasing machinery, tightening belts, etc.

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