hydroelectric power
The benefits of Hydroelectric Power
A hydropower system can generate 24 hours a day, often generating all the electricity required and some more as well. This can cut electricity bills.
A hydropower system may generate more electricity than necessary for lighting and powering electrical appliances, so this excess heat can be used to heat buildings and hot water too. This can cut heating and water bills.
Hydroelectric power is green, renewable energy and doesn't release any harmful carbon dioxide or other pollutants into the atmosphere. This means it can be used for years to come without harming the environment.
Once installed, most systems can last for 40 to 50 years, with low running and maintenance costs and could last for longer if well maintained. There is the potential for the risk of damage by debris carried downstream at times of flood but screening of the intake should minimize this risk.
Could it work here at MTS?
To be suitable for electricity generation, a river needs to have a combination of
Flow – how much water is flowing down the river per second.
Head – a difference in height over a reasonably short distance.
The river that flows through our school could be used to generate hydroelectric power. The system would have to be set up further up stream to avoid interference with the lake but even if it was just a small system, electricity would build up constantly and perhaps a proportion of the schools electrical appliances could run on this system and make our school even greener.
Marcus Cox