Hydropower or hydraulic power is the force of energy of moving water. Prior to the widespread of commercial electric power, hydropower was used for irrigation, and operation of various machines such as watermills, textile machines and sawmills. It can now also be used without a dam to generate electricity for hotel scale remote power systems.

These so-called micro-hydro installations can be a very good complement to a solar power system, as they produce electricity 24 hours a day.

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How water Power Works

Hydropower plants capture the energy of falling water to generate electricity.  A turbine converts the kinetic energy of falling water into mechanical energy. Then  a generator converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy.

Water Power System

Hydroplants range in size from "micro-hydros" that power only an business to  giant dams like hoover Dam that provide electricity for millions of people.

Micor-hydro power has been increasingly used as an alternative energy source, especially in remote areas where other power sources are not viable. Small scale hydro power systems can be installed in small rivers or streams with little or no discernible environmental effect on things such as fish migration. Most small scale hydro power systems make no use of a dam or major water diversion, but rather use water wheels.

There are some considerations in a micro-hydro system installation. The amount of water flow available on a consistent basis, since lack of rain can affect plant operation. Head, or the amount of drop between the intake and the exit. The more head, the mre power that can be generated. There can be legal and regulatory issues, since most countries, cities, and states have regulations about water rights and easements.

For further information on hydropower please visit
www1.eere.energy.gov/windandhydro

Water Power Costs & Incentives

Over the last few years, the U.S. Government has increased support for alternative power generation. Many resources such as grants, loans, and tax benefits are available for small scale hydro systems.

To see a list of state and local incentives please visit: http://www.dsireusa.org/

Resourceful Water Power Links

National Hydropower Association (NHA)
http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy01osti/29065.pdf

Conserve Water With A Shorter Shower Program

Long showers translate to profits down the drain. With rising water and sewer rates, as well as increasing prices of energy required to heat water, there is a large and growing opportunity for hotels to reduce their operating costs and environmental impact through a shorter shower program.

Hotels average 2.1 guests per room each taking 16.2 minute showers using 71.4 gallons of water per room for showering per day. By instituting the shorter shower program a hotel can save nearly $700.00 per year for every 100 hotel rooms with a participation rate of only 20%.

This can be implemented very easily by educating your guests and giving them the option to time their showers. Click here to find great customizable water conservation timers for your hotel on EcoGreenHotel Store.

Individual results of using green products and services listed herein may vary. Low Impact Living, Inc. takes no responsibility  for individual results, nor for service providers or products listed on this website