Micro Hydro - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Botnst · #1 03-03-2011, 08:25 PM

I figure there are enough biodieselers on this site that at least a few are more than passingly acquainted with microhydropower. Mrs B & I are rehabbing an old farmstead which includes a failed dam which is reparable for a not-immodest cost. It has about 1 cfs low flow and a 6 ft historic mean head. I've just started looking at it and would appreciate any comments. Informed comments especially valued!

http://www.alternative-energy-news.info/micro-hydro-power-pros-and-cons/

Botnst · #2 03-03-2011, 09:13 PM

Or this'n: http://www.pioneer-sys.net/microhydro.htm

engatwork · #3 03-04-2011, 07:41 AM

I looked into this this past summer and the roi was not there for the lake I am on. It is approximately 30 acres with 30' head. I drained it down to repair the spill way in June of last year and the level has just now gotten back up to the top of the spillway.

Botnst · #4 03-04-2011, 05:55 PM

That's a good point. An excellent example of why one needs to talk to an actual engineer.

I have a min of 1 cfs and about 6-7ft head to maintain lake level. From the online calculator (admittedly from the vendor) it predicts 2-4 KW.

Now if I have to include repairing the lake, there is NFW it is worth it. But if all I do is count the cost of the turbine sys and installation, the voltage regulator, the storage batteries (another huge investment, but I will use them for the solar panels, too), and inverter, it's a pretty substantial investment.

Anyway, I should be able to figure-out how long it will take to break-even -- probably more than my lifetime! Oh well. The turbine sys is a 50 yr lifetime with 5 yr avg bearing replacement interval. We'll see.

t walgamuth · #5 03-04-2011, 08:14 PM

On the other hand it is a socially responsible hobby that probably would cost less than a lot of other hobbies a person could take up (like amature auto racing)!

engatwork · #6 03-04-2011, 08:25 PM

Quote:

the storage batteries (another huge investment, but I will use them for the solar panels, too)

When I looked into it the batteries were the most expensive item I would need but seeing as how you plan on using them for solar too then you should see a better return.

This is the time of year we have the most water flow (and can generate the most electricity) and to tell the truth the electricity usage is lowest at this time of year. My electric bill (used to heat with too) was $100 last month.

Chas H · #7 03-04-2011, 08:39 PM

You might look into using that water to exchange heat instead of generating power.
Heat pumps are fairly cheap and efficient.

layback40 · #8 03-05-2011, 08:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Botnst

That's a good point. An excellent example of why one needs to talk to an actual engineer.

I have a min of 1 cfs and about 6-7ft head to maintain lake level. From the online calculator (admittedly from the vendor) it predicts 2-4 KW.

Now if I have to include repairing the lake, there is NFW it is worth it. But if all I do is count the cost of the turbine sys and installation, the voltage regulator, the storage batteries (another huge investment, but I will use them for the solar panels, too), and inverter, it's a pretty substantial investment.

Anyway, I should be able to figure-out how long it will take to break-even -- probably more than my lifetime! Oh well. The turbine sys is a 50 yr lifetime with 5 yr avg bearing replacement interval. We'll see.

Hey Bot,
Now you have some numbers. Even though they are mixed up a bit but thats ok. When I calculated your flow (in ltr/sec & worked on a 2 mtr drop, I got just under 2KW for a 30% efficient system (thats being realistic). If you have no other power available, it may be worth considering. Unlike solar you could crank it up during the morning & evening if you need it. With the right sort of system you can turn it off & on . Many hydro systems are used for peak demand. Capacity on your dam is your battery. If there is another dam down stream from you it will even out any surges. If you could vary the flow up to say 3 cusecs when needed & shut down when there is no demand, you may be on a winner. Electricity in Australia is around 20c / kwhr probably similar over there. Having capacity for say 50kwhr per day is more than most homes use. If you can keep your peak under 5kw it could work.

MS Fowler · #9 03-05-2011, 10:06 AM

When you figure ROI, don't forget the value of being able to generate your own electricity and be self-sufficient when the entire economy is destroyed, and all the utility companies are down.

Just sayin...