How to Build a Home Micro Hydro Power System

Have you ever wondered if your property could benefit from a home hydroelectric power system? Or maybe you're looking for a new property, considering suitability for micro hydro design, and want to know what to look for. You're in the right place for a brief overview of the big picture. Read on, and then dig deeper into areas where you have more questions.

Calculate your energy needs. How much power will it take to run your home? See [needs link].

Evaluate your site's hydro potential. How much power can you produce? What will it cost to install? What will it cost to maintain? See [needs link].

Check legal requirements. What permits and licenses are required? What will they cost to obtain? What will they cost to maintain? See [needs link].

Plan your installation. What will go where? See [needs link].

Apply for necessary permits and licenses.

Determine what work you will do and what you will contract out.

Find a contractor with experience in micro hydro installations to do the work you don't want to do, or don't have the expertise to do yourself.

Purchase required materials for your plan, or review purchase plans with your contractor if they will be handling this.

Begin installation of intake, penstock (inlet pressure piping), powerhouse, and tailrace (outlet route) [need links with more details for each item]. Order of install will vary depending on your plan, available materials, and available labor.

Pressure test penstock and intake piping. Repair any leaks. [needs link]

Double-check electrical connections and safeties.

Start up your generator [needs link with more details].

Charge up your batteries (unless you have a larger, AC direct system).

Flip the switch and start using your own hydro power!

Tips

• Permits and/or licenses will be required in most jurisdictions and can take quite a bit of time to get (8-12 months is common). Apply early and make sure your applications are complete. If possible, get feedback on your plan from relevant authorities ahead of time to fix problems with your application before you apply--rather than filing a new application and starting the wait all over again in a year.
• Thorough planning will pay off in saved money--and frustration.

Warnings

• Electricity is very dangerous if not handled correctly. If in doubt, get qualified help. It may save your life, or the life of someone you care about.