Small Hydro and Micro Hydro
Small hydro generation is defined as electricity generated as water flows from a dam and through a turbine. Small hydro usually refers to installations between two and 50 megawatts. Micro-hydro is a small-scale power generating system in which water runs through a turbine in a river or stream to generate electricity. Micro-hydro usually refers to any installation up to two megawatts capacity.Economics
Small hydro and micro-hydro systems are not common in Alberta. The amount of electricity generated depends on the volume and speed of water flowing, and the head or vertical drop of the water. The economics of a hydro project is therefore best in locations with high volume, fast water flows and a high head. As with wind power, one of the first steps when considering hydro installation is to do your research and to contact the local electricity wires company to determine the grid interconnection requirements.
Alberta Small Hydro Installations
Canadian Hydro Developers own and operate four small hydro sites in the province.
