Types of Microhydro-Electric Systems
As with wind- and solar-electric systems, hydro-electric systems can be divided into four configurations:
Microhydro-electric systems can power most, if not all, electrical loads, depending on the size of the resource. The smallest systems may only provide for lighting, electronics, and basic refrigeration. But with sufficient head and flow, these systems can run heating and cooling systems, tools, and even commercial equipment in a modern, on-grid home, ranch, or business. The head and flow are the limitation, and it all comes down to how much power (wattage) and energy (kilowatt-hours) you have at your disposal.
While people with solar-electric and small wind-electric systems may be pushed toward serious efficiency and conservation measures because of the cost of these renewable kilowatt-hours, small hydro systems frequently have ample resources behind them, and can be more generous with their output. However, using your energy wisely can mean using less water and smaller equipment, which means lower environmental impact and lower cost.