In view of the Perak state government is planning to build the mini hydro power in Perak, I have search on this. Mini hydro power is different from the huge hydro power. It is very much smaller with limited land use. One mini hydro power has been completed in Bidor. Hydro power is part of the renewable energy.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Renewable energy derived from sustainable replenished natural sources. Originates from natural resources e.g. sunlight, wind, rain, tides and geothermal heat. Renewable energy usage can contribute to better air quality and reduce reliance on fossil fuels thus curbing global warming. Harnessing energy from sun, wind, water, plants and others will put us on the path to a cleaner environment. It helps to protect environment values e.g. habitat and water quality.
SMALL HYDRO POWER
Small hydro power is production of electricity by harnessing the power of water flow from lake, river and stream. It is based on the simple concept of moving water to turn the turbine that will spin a generator which in turn produce electricity.
WATER POWER
It is the combination of head and flow. Both must be present to produce electricity, where water is diverted from a stream into a pipeline; directed downhill and through the turbine. The vertical drop creates pressure at the bottom end of the pipeline. The pressurized water emerging from the end of pipe creates the force that drives the turbine. Electrical output will always slightly less than water power input due to turbine and system inefficiencies.
Flow is water quantity and is expressed as volume per time - cubic metre per second, cubic feet per second or litres per minute. Design flow is the maximum flow which hydro system is designed. Its likely be less than the maximum flow of stream especially during rainy season and comparison between potential electrical output and system cost.
HYDRO POWER CONCEPT
