This is a collection of conference papers on small hydro renewable energy, covering such topics as: resource assessment and planning; design and construction; and plant and equipment.

Hydropower is the power that is harnessed from the energy of water that is falling or fast running. It is a form of renewable energy source that is used for irrigation, for operating mechanical devices like textile mills, sawmills, domestic lifts and ore mills. It is also used for generating electricity. Hydropower projects can be of various types, such as small hydro, micro hydro, conduit hydroelectricity projects, conventional hydroelectric, pumped-storage hydroelectricity, etc. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of hydropower and hydropower technologies, which will be crucial for the holistic understanding of the subject matter. It studies, analyzes and upholds the pillars of hydropower and its utmost significance in modern times. The book is appropriate for those seeking detailed information in this area.

For many years, hydropower played an essential role in the development of humanity and has a long and successful track record. It is a conventional renewable energy source for generating electricity in small- and large-scale production. Due to its important utilization and future prospects, various interesting topics of research related to hydroelectric power generation are covered in this book. This book is the result of significant contributions from several researchers and experts worldwide. It is hoped that the book will become a useful source of information and basis for extended research for researchers, academics, policy makers, and practitioners in the area of renewable hydropower technologies.

Providing essential theory and useful practical techniques for implementing hydroelectric projects, this book outlines the resources, power generation technologies, applications, and strengths and weaknesses for hydroelectric technologies. Emphasizing the links between energy and the environment, it serves as a useful background resource and facilitates decision-making regarding which renewable energy technology works best for different types of applications and regions. Including examples, real-world case studies, and lessons learned, each chapter contains exercise questions, references, and ample photographs and technical drawings from actual micro hydropower plants.

Waterpower is the largest source of renewable energy in the world today, and microhydro is a mature, proven technology that can provide clean, inexpensive, renewable energy with little or no impact on the environment. Serious Microhydro brings you dozens of firsthand stories of energy independence covering a complete range of systems, from household pressure sites to higher pressure installations capable of powering a farm, business, or small neighborhood. Topics include: Low head and medium head sites AC-only systems as well as ones using a battery/inverter subsystem Stand alone power supply or grid intertie setups Hybrid systems (combined with photovoltaics or wind) With all the variables involved in microhydro, there is no “typical” system. These case studies represent the most comprehensive collection of knowledge and experience available for tailoring an installation to meet the needs of a site and its owner or operators. If you are considering building a system, you are bound to find a wealth of creative solutions appropriate to your own circumstances. Serious Microhydro shows how scores of people are achieving a high standard of living from local energy sources with a minimal ecological footprint. It has particular appeal to homeowners, teachers, renewable energy professionals, activists, and decision makers who want to understand the technology from a “hands-on” perspective. Scott Davis is an award-winning renewable energy project developer with decades of experience operating, installing, designing, selling, and teaching microhydro technology. He is a founder and president of Friends of Renewable Energy BC, and the author of Microhydro: Clean Power From Water.

further chapters cover specific aspects of turbine types for hydro, not previously covered thoroughly by published material new title for successful Planning & Installing series

Hydropower provides a complete discussion of the most up-to-date considerations of this method of creating renewable energy. After introducing the method's history, the author explores various considerations for engineers, planners and managers who need to determine the best placement and size of a plant. The book then presents various types of hydropower systems, such as Run-of-River Schemes and various types of Dam and Turbines, also considering the important economic, environmental and geological impacts of each. Those involved in the planning, design and management of hydropower systems, such as engineers, researchers, managers and policymakers will find this book a very valuable and insightful resource. - Explores different types of dams and turbines set alongside easy-to-understand diagrams, such as Embankment Dams, Concrete Arch Dams, Reaction Turbines and Francis Turbines - Considers various economic and environmental factors significant for this type of project, such as resettlement, biodiversity and greenhouse gases - Discusses best practices for locating a hydropower site and how to make important decisions regarding placement and method