The Microhydropower Calculator helps estimate the power generation potential of a micro-hydroelectric turbine installation.
This calculator relies on publicly-available, map-based data to generate estimates of electrical power
potential. Default values are provided, but users may manually override the default and map generated values.
It's important to understand that not 100% of the available water may pass through the generator, and that
generators are not 100% efficient.
This calculator is not a precise tool and is not intended to replace field measurements or surveys. Dam owners should
discuss their options with a micro hydropower design professional as individual circumstances may vary.
While Bard College has endeavored to ensure that the supplied calculations and information are based on valid
assumptions and approaches, outputs from the calculator are meant to guide only. Users should verify the information
obtained through the calculator independently. Bard College takes no responsibility for any error or defect therein.
Bard College shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from the use or reliance of any data supplied by the
calculator.
This calculator will guide you through these steps:
- Site Identification. Use the map and available data layers to identify a spot suitable for a potential microhydropower installation. Diagram the location on the map, and the calculator will automatically estimate head (elevation change) and delineate the contributing area using available topographic data.
- Parameters. Input calculation coefficients and other assumptions used in the calculation (sensible defaults are provided). Optionally, override the head and area estimates derived from data in Step 1.
- Results. View the analysis results, including total kilowatt hours and estimated revenue generation.
First, find a location for a potential micro-hydro installation.
Use the map to the right, its
search tool, and available layers
to find locations suitable for microhydro installation.
Dam locations (New York State only), along with hydrography from USGS, are available as map layers. A layer indicating
the coverage of high-resolution LiDAR elevation data is also available. Switch the basemap between several
available imagery and topographic styles to get a better sense of the terrain.
Then, diagram a conceptual installation.
Use the draw tool to draw a line from a point downstream (lower elevation) to a point upstream (higher elevation) to indicate the potential location of a microhydropower installation's outlets and inlets, respectively. You don't need to trace the exact path; start and end points are sufficient!
Use the edit button to modify your diagram.
Use the delete button to delete your diagram.
Estimated from your sketch:
Head Calculating... Estimating Head...
0 Feet
Area Calculating... Delineating Area...
0 Sq. Miles
Adjust Parameters
Power Potential
kilowatt hours
Value
$
/ year
Head
Feet
Contributing Area
Sq. Miles
Constants
- Environmental Flow: cubic feet per second
- Efficiency:
- Rate: $ per kilowatt-hour