How Hydropwer Works?
Hydropower uses water pressure to generate mechanical energy. The mechanical energy developed could be transformed into a versatile electrical energy through appropriate electrical equipment.
The water in the river is diverted by the weir through an opening in the river side (the `intake') into an open channel. A settling basin is used to remove sand particles from the water. The channel follows the contour of the hillside so as to preserve the elevation of the diverted water. The water then enters a tank known as the `forebay' and passes into a closed pipe known as the `penstock'. This is connected at a lower elevation to a waterwheel, known as a turbine. The turning shaft of the wheel can be used to rotate a mechanical device (such as a grinding mill, oil expeller, wood lathe and so on), or to operate an electricity generator. The machinery or appliances which are energized by the hydro scheme are called the `load'.
Micro-Hydropower is classified as hydropower schemes in the range of 5-100 kW installed capacity
Mini-Hydropower scheme usually in the range of 101-1000kW.
Benefits
Micro-Hydropower is :
- Clean, domestic and renewable source of energy.
- Doesn't pollute the air like power plants that burn fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas.
- Available as needed; engineers can control the flow of water through the turbines to produce electricity on demand.
- Provide benefits in addition to clean electricity.
- Impoundment hydropower creates reservoirs that offer a variety of recreational opportunities, notably fishing, swimming, and boating.
- Other benefits may include water supply and flood control.
Technical Services
The Department of Science and Technology CALABARZON (DOST CALABARZON) and Southern Tagalog Consortium for Industry & Development (STCIERD) recognizes the benefits of conducting site assessment.
