Micro Hydropower

Types of Hydropower :-
There are several types of hydropower plants, each with different capacity ranges. Here are some of the most common types of hydropower plants along with their capacity ranges:

1. Large hydroelectric power plants: Large hydroelectric power plants have a capacity of over 30 MW and can generate significant amounts of electricity. These plants are typically built on large rivers or dams and use turbines to generate electricity.
2. Medium hydroelectric power plants: Medium hydroelectric power plants have a capacity between 10 MW and 30 MW and are often built on smaller rivers or at the base of dams. These plants also use turbines to generate electricity.
3. Small hydroelectric power plants: Small hydroelectric power plants have a capacity between 100 kW and 10 MW and are often built on small rivers or streams. These plants may use either turbines or waterwheels to generate electricity.
4. Mini hydroelectric power plants: Mini hydroelectric power plants have a capacity between 5 kW and 100 kW and are often used to power individual homes, farms, or small businesses. These plants may use either turbines or waterwheels to generate electricity.
5. Micro hydroelectric power plants: Micro hydroelectric power plants have a capacity between 5 kW and 100 kW and are often used to power remote locations or off-grid communities. These plants may use either turbines or waterwheels to generate electricity.

The choice of hydropower plant depends on several factors, including the availability of water resources, the level of electricity demand, and the cost of construction and maintenance. By selecting the appropriate type of hydropower plant for a given location, developers can maximize the amount of electricity generated and ensure the long-term sustainability of the system.
So selecting the right site for a micro-hydropower plant is critical to ensuring the success and viability of the project. Here are some of the key site selection criteria for a micro-hydropower plant:-

1. Water availability: The site must have a reliable and consistent source of water to power the micro-hydropower plant. The flow rate and head of the water must be sufficient to generate the required amount of electricity.
2. Topography: The site must have the appropriate topography to accommodate the micro-hydropower plant. A suitable site should have a sufficient elevation drop, which can be created by a natural waterfall or by constructing a diversion canal or pipeline.
3. Land ownership: The site must be accessible and have clear ownership rights. Landowners must be willing to grant access to the site and agree to the installation of the micro-hydropower plant.
4. Environmental considerations: The site must be environmentally suitable for the installation of the micro-hydropower plant. It is important to consider the potential impact on the ecosystem, including wildlife, fish, and vegetation, and to obtain any necessary permits and approvals.
5. Electrical grid connection: The site must be located within reasonable distance from the electrical grid, or alternative energy storage systems must be available to store and distribute the electricity generated by the micro-hydropower plant.
6. Access and logistics: The site must be accessible for equipment and materials delivery, as well as maintenance and repair work. It is also important to consider any logistical challenges, such as steep terrain or difficult weather conditions, that may affect the installation and operation of the micro-hydropower plant.
7. Economic viability: The site must be economically viable for the installation of the micro-hydropower plant. This includes an assessment of the potential cost and revenue streams associated with the project, as well as any financial incentives or support available from government or other sources.

By considering these site selection criteria, developers can identify suitable locations for the installation of micro-hydropower plants that are environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially responsible.


There are several types of turbines that are suited for micro-hydropower systems. Here are some of the most common types, along with their special characteristics:

1. Pelton turbine: The Pelton turbine is a type of impulse turbine that is well-suited for micro-hydropower systems with high head and low flow rates. The turbine uses a series of cups or buckets that are arranged around the perimeter of a wheel. Water is directed onto the cups, which causes the wheel to rotate. The Pelton turbine is known for its high efficiency and can operate at low flow rates.
2. Turgo turbine: The Turgo turbine is also an impulse turbine that is well-suited for micro-hydropower systems with high head and low flow rates. The turbine uses a series of buckets that are arranged in a spiral pattern around the perimeter of a wheel. Water is directed onto the buckets, which causes the wheel to rotate. The Turgo turbine is known for its high efficiency and can operate at low flow rates.
3. Cross-flow turbine: The Cross-flow turbine is a type of reaction turbine that is well-suited for micro-hydropower systems with low to medium head and moderate flow rates. The turbine uses a series of blades that are arranged around a shaft. Water is directed onto the blades, which causes the shaft to rotate. The Cross-flow turbine is known for its simple design and ease of maintenance.
4. Kaplan turbine: The Kaplan turbine is a type of reaction turbine that is well-suited for micro-hydropower systems with low to medium head and high flow rates. The turbine uses a series of adjustable blades that are arranged around a shaft. Water is directed onto the blades, which causes the shaft to rotate. The Kaplan turbine is known for its high efficiency and can operate at a wide range of flow rates.
5. Francis turbine: The Francis turbine is also a type of reaction turbine that is well-suited for micro-hydropower systems with medium to high head and moderate flow rates. The turbine uses a series of fixed blades that are arranged around a shaft. Water is directed onto the blades, which causes the shaft to rotate. The Francis turbine is known for its high efficiency and can operate at a wide range of flow rates.

Thus, the choice of turbine depends on several factors, including the head and flow rate of the water, the level of efficiency required, and the cost and availability of the turbine. By selecting the appropriate turbine for a micro-hydropower system, developers can optimize the performance of the system and maximize the amount of electricity generated.