Small Homemade Hydroelectric Power Source

Hydroelectric power can be harnessed on a small scale.

Hydroelectric power is based on simple properties and concepts. Flowing water turns a turbine, which in turn spins a generator. The workforce behind this power is a readily flowing stream and a limited amount of power conversion technology.

Battery Power

One of the best power options for a small, homemade hydroelectric system is an inverter and battery bank. This system is very flexible and can be combined with other power options, such as wind and solar. In this system, an inverter turns direct current (DC) battery power into standard alternating current (AC) electricity for household power consumption.

Direct AC System

A potential power source for a home hydroelectric system is an AC turbine generator.

A "Homepower" magazine website article reports that this system can reach output levels of 120 to 240 volts. Of necessity, this system must be large enough to meet household needs on a regular basis.

Grid Tie

AC and DC generators can be used to transfer energy from a hydroelectric system back into the power grid. This system features hydro turbines, a converter for DC power and an automated control device for power regulation.

References

• "Homepower;" Microhydro Electricity Basics; Paul Cunningham and Ian Woofenden
• Northeast Regional Agricultural Engineering Service: Small Hydroelectric Plants; 1978

Resources

• Build it Solar: Small Scale Hydro