BENEFITS AND DISADVANTAGES OF SMALL HYDROPOWER SYSTEMS
Micro hydro power systems can cut your energy bills and also your carbon footprint: hydroelectricity is a renewable energy source that doesn't release harmful pollutants. But there are possible drawbacks.
The benefits of small hydro systems
The operation costs of hydro electricity production are low, considering the long lifespan of the hydro structures and the relatively low maintenance costs.
The very low emission of greenhouse gases is another advantage: hydropower is green…
In most cases, hydro systems can coexist with other water uses such as irrigation or regulation of the river flows. And that’s also an advantage.
Image: GE Hydro Turbine
The disadvantages of small hydro systems
Hydro systems are often criticized for altering wildlife habitats. Namely they may impede fish migration and affect water quality. But that is mainly a problem of large-scale dam projects, and a problem of the past: modern technological developments are succeeding in reducing the negative environmental impact of the mega hydro systems...
Small hydro power systems rarely cause destruction of biomes, or fish and other water-life biodiversity, and rarely collides with water supply, flood control, irrigation or recreation purposes. But you should be attentive to these potential problems…
The main practical disadvantage of small hydro projects is their high initial investment ($30,000 - $40,000 for a 5kW unit) and the long or relatively long payback period. Maintenance costs (though small) and legal requirements can also be a drawback.
See also:
Hydropower basics
The feasibility of micropower systems
Assessing hydro potential
Benefits and disadvantages of the micropower systems
Types of Micropower Systems
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