Hydro/creek power.....does anyone?

[MotorSeven]

Keep it comming...had to look them up, but now i know what penstock and weir are /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif. Is there a formula fo head? I already know that the head will be low, so a DC system may be the only way to go. But, the house isn't built yet, so knowing that i had access to DC power would change/add some things to the design. I don't think the waterway is too regulated as lots of folks here cross the creeks by laying down 3-4 culverts then covering them with crete----instant bridge. Of course they all may be illegal......

RD

 

[monkeymonk]

I do have a full formula id better check it and get back to you its late here. Wind and solar are a bigger investment but do pay off eventually... if your off grid it all pays off. Hybrid systems work a little solar little hydro little wind.

 

[monkeymonk]

Looks like ill be in town for 2 days so ill get my skematics and formula later. Wow its sounds like your going to be building soon.Much better than a Remod! you have more options for solar hot water,loop systems and such. Theres a magazine out there called Home Power www.homepower.comyou may have heard of it? its the best resource for alternative energy and building.Not the only one but the most conclusive and up to date one get it youll love it!

 

[scesnick]

Here is a very good link on this subject. http://www.waterturbine.com/ This link also has a Ultra low head generator. There are others out there for low head installations.

I have been looking at this for about 4 years. The way I understand it, atleast in most states, is that if you are not completely damming up the entire creek and leave a bypass for fish, then you possibly should be able to do this. Like I said before I have also looked into windmills becasue i live on top of a mountain. It would work o.k. if you had a contract with mother nature to supply wind 24/7.
The creek running through my farm originates on my land so it is pretty much mine until it leaves my property. (my father went to court about this 20 some years ago. )
This is doable for anyone who wants to give it a whirl. There is a company in Baltimore Md. that will do a site analysis for $500 . I have contacted them in the past. if you would like their llink I could track it down for you.
Or, just do a google search. there is PLENTY out there on this subject.

 

[MotorSeven]

MM,

Thanks for the info...ordered the mag! I have yet to draw up the blue prints, still not sure of the exact location/orientation of the house. I have alot to do before i break ground......... /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

RD

 

[tommu56]

<font color="yellow"> </font> Try this link and search for micro hydro there will be many hits web page

good for solar and wind power too


tom mussington

 

[monkeymonk]

Still in town, got stuck running round.Im excited for you Home power is a great Mag. There's a great lil tool called Solar pathfinder www.solarpathfinder.com a lil pricey but great for plotting garden,shed,house, solar water and panel sites. May be usefull if your starting fresh I got one and my Friends like to use it as well /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif I bet you theres an Alternative energy company or someone who specializes in site assessment near you,Theres nothing like a site specific assessment.You write down/tell them what you would like to do-build- and write down everything you would like to power at the SAME TIME and stand alone.. like say T.V, stero and 2 computers,well pump,dishwasher, 16 lights......What ever your needs may be add up the watts and youll have a good idea of how much power your going to need. homepower has a list of resources in the back as well people,companies,tech...Gotta go to the Tractor shop it's almost 4:30...................