Hydropower

Hydropower is energy obtained from flowing water. Energy in water can be harnessed and used, in the form of motive energy or temperature differences. The most common application is the dam, but it can be used directly as a mechanical force or a thermal source/sink.

Small scale hydro power

In poor areas of the world, many remote communities still do not have access to electricity. Micro hydro power, between 5kW and 100kW allows such communities to generate their own electricity1. This is a form of power which is supported by various organisations such as the UK's Intermediate Technology Development Group.

Related Topics:
1 - Intermediate Technology Development Group

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Micro-hydro power can be used directly as "shaft power" for many industrial applications. Alternatively, the preferred option for domestic energy supply is to convert to electricity either through the use of a custom generator or through a reversed electric motor which, while often less efficient is more likely to be available locally and cheaply.

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