What Licence is required for a micro hydro system?
All new hydroelectric systems require planning permission and an abstraction licence. You will need planning permission to install any domestic or community hydroelectric system, even a small scheme to power a single home. You should contact your local authority at an early stage.
How does a micro hydro scheme work?
Micro-Hydro power systems convert the potential energy in small streams and waterways into kinetic energy via a mechanical turbine, which drives a generator to produce electricity. The greater the drop and quantity of water there is flowing through the turbine, the more electricity can be generated.
How much does a micro hydro plant cost?
Micro-Hydro Power System Cost A complete micro-hydro power system with hydro generator, charge control, batteries and inverter costs about $4,000 – $15,000 plus the pipeline and installation.
What two physical requirements are needed for micro hydro to work?
The two vital factors to consider are the flow and the head of the stream or river. The flow is the volume of water which can be captured and re-directed to turn the turbine generator.
Can a stream power a house?
Microhydropower can be one of the most simple and consistent forms or renewable energy on your property. If you have water flowing through your property, you might consider building a small hydropower system to generate electricity. Microhydropower systems usually generate up to 100 kilowatts of electricity.
Are there any micro hydro projects in the UK?
There are still hundreds of potential hydro sites and weirs around the British Isles which could provide sustainable energy and continue our long tradition of harnessing the power of water, but with the reduction in FIT for hydro, these Micro hydro projects will now be un-viable.
What is the return on investment for micro hydro Association?
The Micro Hydro Association (MHA) is shocked by the totally unexpected reduction in FIT for smaller schemes, especially for <100 kW installations. The MHA cannot compute how the new tariffs will yield a 9.2% financial return on investment, as stated by DECC.
How does community Hydro work in the UK?
Where communities club together to own their own renewable energy installations as not for profit co-operative societies. Community hydro projects have been prominent across the UK and yield a return for their investors, but also a community benefit fund to be allocated by the members to local good causes.
How much does it cost to install micro hydro?
Micro-hydro installations are extremely site-specific. Prices vary widely depending on the type and size of system and how much work you are able to put in yourself. The basic equipment for a 1kW off-grid battery charging system might cost £5,000 to £6,000, plus installation costs.