Typical Hydro Plant Layout
If water flows from point A down to point B along any path by any means – along the riverbed or an open canal or through a pipe – it loses energy at a rate equal to:
P = 9.8 Eo Q Hg
- P = Power lost by the water in Kilowatts
- Eo = Overall system efficiency
- Q = Flow (meters 3 per second) rate at which the water descends from A to B
- Hg = Gross Head (meters) elevation from A to B
Power from a water turbine is principally from the elevation change and the water flow rate. To determine the suitability of a site for hydro power, the gross head or elevation and water flow rate must be established. Data on the flow rate must be for several years due to climatic changes. The following is an excellent resource for practical and cost-effective methods of implementing hydro power.
Micro-Hydropower Sourcebook: A practical guide to design and implementation in developing countries Allen R. Inversin (Author)
Author: William D. Wright, PE
NABCEP – Certified PV Installer
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