The Genius of Small Hydro Turbines
Undecided with Matt Ferrell・2 minutes read
Existing hydropower systems in the US are aging and unreliable, but companies like Vortex Hydrokinetics and Turbulent are developing innovative small hydropower turbines that can operate effectively in various water conditions. These new turbine designs offer a sustainable and reliable source of energy without the need for large dams, providing benefits to local communities and the environment.
Insights
- The majority of hydropower systems in the US are outdated, posing reliability and safety risks to surrounding communities due to aging infrastructure.
- Small hydropower (SHP) technologies like the Vortex Hydro SETUR and Turbulent turbines offer innovative, eco-friendly solutions that provide continuous, reliable energy production without the environmental and social costs associated with large dams, showcasing the potential for sustainable and flexible power generation.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
What are the benefits of small hydropower systems?
Small hydropower systems offer growth potential, innovation, and reliability. They provide nearby communities with electricity without the need for large dams or high hydraulic heads. Companies like Vortex Hydrokinetics and Turbulent are developing new turbine designs that are eco-friendly and scalable, allowing for continuous and reliable energy production.
How do Vortex Hydro SETUR turbines operate?
Vortex Hydro SETUR turbines are bladeless models that create a vortex in flowing water to generate electricity. They come in two models, SETUR-M (500 W) and SETUR-L (5 kW), producing significant amounts of energy per year. These turbines can operate in water bodies with low flows and depths, making them versatile and efficient for small hydropower systems.
What is the capacity factor of Turbulent's micro power plant?
Turbulent's micro power plant can achieve up to a 90% capacity factor, showcasing its high efficiency in converting potential energy into actual electricity production. This is significantly higher than the capacity factor of solar power, making small hydropower systems like Turbulent's a reliable and consistent source of energy.
How do Turbulent turbines address intermittency issues?
Turbulent turbines are designed with a rubber coating to withstand ice formation, ensuring their longevity and reliability despite intermittent power generation interruptions. While factors like seasonality can affect water flow and cause intermittency, Turbulent's turbines are equipped to handle these challenges, providing a continuous source of energy.
What are the advantages of small hydropower systems over large dams?
Small hydropower systems like Turbulent's offer more flexibility in installation locations, lower environmental impact, and contribute to local power generation needs. Unlike large dams that come with environmental and social costs, small hydropower systems provide a sustainable and efficient way to generate electricity while minimizing disruptions to ecosystems and communities.
Related videos
Turbulent Hydro
Turbulent Energy Explained: The Vortex Turbine!
Quantum Tech HD
Ingenious DIY Hydroelectric Turbine Systems | Free Energy by @mr.construction9846
Undecided with Matt Ferrell
The Future of Solid State Wind Energy - No More Blades
Student Energy
Hydropower 101
Undecided with Matt Ferrell
How We Solved The Home Wind Turbine Problem