ReGenTech - Technologies

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Registered in Scotland Company Number SC211438

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Office view October 2008

Micro Hydro

Hydro energy is one of the great UK secrets. We conventionally think of Hydro as large dam systems across the world associated with the flooding of towns and valleys. These large dam systems across the country are hugely important in maintaining the stability of Scotland’s and the UK’s grid electricity. But it does not have be be huge. For the more enquiring Wikipedia discuss this at length.

What we can do for you:

Site assessment, first by reviewing the OS maps assessing the general location
Hydrological assessment, measurement of water flow and evaluating seasonal variation
Detailed design of energy system from water containment to grid connection
Project planning, installation and commissioning
Planning and grant applications assistance

If you have water flowing across your land it may be harnessed to meet some if not all of your energy needs; you may have enough to sell to the grid. There are some farmers across Scotland with micro hydro plants that have been producing reliably for the past 50 years. A few thoughts on micro hydro where available:

It can flow continuously but with seasonal variations
Solving localised water logging can help add water volume to your streams flow improving yield
The power may be smaller than wind but the energy delivered over the year can be substantially greater due to higher duty factor
Power ratings can be from 100W to 100kW
Well established technology and much easier than people think, a dam may not be needed!
Very high duty factor of 70–90% is achievable
One of the better economic return opportunities available.

If you have an old disused mill pond, lade or water source from an old mill, ultra low head units exist which can harness a good flow from as little as 1.8m head. Using and old mill lade can make a project very easy, low cost and have a negligible effect on surrounding environment making dealing with authorities much more straightforward especially planning.