RENEWABLE ENERGY - MICROHYDRO
Microhydro utilizes the energy of falling water to generate electricity. This is not to be confused with large scale hydro dam projects. A proper installation has no negative effects on the local stream, simply diverting a portion of the available water and then returning that water back to the stream.
If your site has a source of running water, you simply must investigate its potential as a source of electricity. According to Energy Alternatives Limited, water power will produce between 10 and 100 times more power than solar or wind for the same capital investment. Since water flows day and night, a microhydro system requires far less battery storage than other technologies. Even if the stream is far away, it may still be viable. Distances of several kilometers can be covered by utilizing high voltage generators. Seasonal streams offer great performance when a hybrid water and solar system is designed.
