Using Water Power

By Bryan Martin


Homeowners who have access to free flowing water sources may benefit from using a home made energy system powered by water. This type of system is known as a microhydropower system and it is a clean form of energy that home owners can access to save money and reduce pollution. According to the United States Department of Energy, one 10 kilowatt microhydropower system will generate enough clean energy for a large residential home or a small farm.

Farmers and ranchers often use this type of home made energy to keep their operating costs lower. In some areas, home or business owners can purchase this type of energy from a hydropower plant. Other homeowners choose to install a system for home use in their homes.

Home made energy using hydropower requires a source of free flowing water such as a river or strong stream. A portion of water runs into a channel or pipeline that diverts it to a water wheel. The force of the moving water causes the wheel to turn, providing energy through the moving water. Many people power their hydropower system with a generator, so that adequate amounts of energy are produced. Hydropower systems can be stand-alone or connected to the electrical grid of your local power company.

Many hydropower systems used for home made energy are sold in packages that include the turbine or water wheel, pipeline and generator. These do-it-yourself packages require careful attention to detail. Setting the generator and water wheel to a matching speed is critical to the success of these systems. There are also contractors that specialize in the installation of microhydropower systems, which is often best for those trying to power large ranches or farm land.

Those considering using hydropower for their main source of energy, must also consider if permits are necessary prior to the installation of the home made energy system. An adequate source of free flowing water must be available and it usually works best in hilly areas.




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