Hydroelectricity, also known as hydropower energy, is a form of renewable energy. Hydropower energy uses moving water to generate electricity. For millennia, people have used green energy hydropower as a power source. The power is manufactured in hydropower sites or plants. These sites are strategically located in suitable environments.
Features of the Best Location for Hydroelectricity
Topography
An excellent spot for hydropower needs to be along the path of a river. Hydroelectricity is produced by utilizing the power of moving water to generate electricity. This means that water is one of the primary raw materials. A hydro site that is located near a river is best suited because the water can be sourced from the river. The best location along the path of a river is at the canyon. The river canyon is the place where the river narrows.
Simplicity
An excellent location for hydroelectricity should have a simple layout. The layout should have the main parts close together. It allows for easy construction and installation works. The perfect location, construction-wise, would be a green field. The field, however, needs to have zero constraints because they make work complicated and extremely expensive. On the other hand, the best location, installation wise, is one where the turbine and the discharge are close together. Note that when the structures are relatively small, their costs are reduced significantly.
Accessibility
The location should also be easy to access. For instance, the site will require access to the construction equipment, vehicles for delivery, large systems, and cranes. This is especially important for the construction stage. Therefore, a location that is packed with buildings features tight corners, and narrow lanes would not be a good idea. Inaccessible locations tend to reduce productivity during construction and also increase costs.
Single Ownership
The ideal situation would be if the location was owned by one person or company. This makes it easier for environmental consenting, and there is also no need for commercial agreements between owners of the land. Such contracts include terms like sharing a percentage of the revenue. However, if the site cannot be located in a single owned land, getting cooperative neighbors would be a good option.
Few Environmental Sensitivities
Before constructing a hydroelectric site, the Environmental Agency has to give consent. Building a site in a location where there are several environmental sensitivities would cost more money and time. Therefore, instead of constructing in a highly sensitive environment and spending a lot of money, a location with few sensitivities would do better.
Benefits of Choosing Hallidays Hydropower International
The company has ten years’ worth of experience as a consultant in the delivery and maintenance of low-head run of river hydropower schemes that are fish friendly. The experience makes them the best go-to consultants. The company also has national and international levels of expertise.