I n this book; weve explored many ways to conserve energy and trim demand by using energy more efficiently in your home or business to get the most for your energy dollar and also to help create a cleaner; healthier; and more sustainable future. We’ve also explored a wide range of options for tapping into […]

Microhydro is a great source of reliable electrical energy, but before you go out to buy a system, you should have a full understanding of its pros and cons. On the plus side, microhydro is probably the most cost-effective renewable energy system on the market. According to Scott Davis, it delivers "the best bang per […]

Microhydro systems are pretty easy to install. In fact, people with modest plumb­ing and electrical skills can install most of a system without much trouble. However, battery banks, inverters, and other controls typically used in offi-grid systems require a higher degree of expertise than many do-it-yourselfers possess. Grid-connected systems require a high level of electrical […]

Most microhydro systems produce low – voltage DC electricity that travels in a wire to the battery bank. Because low-voltage current doesn’t travel well — it loses energy quickly over distance — it is best to keep power lines from the turbine/generator short, under 100 feet. If this is not possible, you will need to […]

After designing an intake structure and selecting a turbine, you’ll need to design a pipeline* Pipelines are typically made from either 4-inch PVC or smaller polyethyl­ene pipe* PVC is used almost exclusively when the pipe needs to be over 2 inches in diameter, although 1*5- to 2-inch PVC can be and is used* Four-inch PVC […]

In most systems, a steel shaft connects the turbine to the generator. This shaft com pies the turbine with the generator so that rotation of the turbines runner translates into rotation within the generator, “The most efficient and reliable drive system involves a direct 1:1 coupling between the turbine and generator," notes New. But this […]

Although most microhydro systems pro­duce DC electricity, there are some times when AC generators are advisable, notably for larger commercial applications or for grid-connected systems. These systems can produce more than 3,000 watts of continuous power or 72 kWh per day — far more than most homes ever consume* As Dan New pointed out in […]

Several different types of microhydro tur­bine/ generators are available. Your choice minimize maintenance, Harris also offers a brushless permanent magnet generator* These units cost about $700 more, but use larger, more sturdy bearings that last two to three times longer* This greatly reduces maintenance and replacement costs* It is well worth the extra cost* Harris […]