Hydropower: Basic Concepts (The Science of Electricity)

This book discusses the most important concepts of hydropower. The first chapter explains the basic concepts of hydropower. The second chapter discusses dams and rivers. The third chapter explains how to calculate the amount of power from a hydropower system, and offers the essential hydropower calculations. The final chapter provides an overview of micro-hydro systems, with some practical tips for those readers who are considering installing such a system.

A. Hydropower Basics
1. Introduction
2. Brief description of hydroelectric power
3. Factors in the amount of power from hydroelectric plants

B. Dams, Reservoirs, and Rivers
1. Introduction
2. Dams
3. Controlling Water Flow (Sluice Gate and Spillways)
4. Penstocks and Trash Racks
5. Reservoirs
6. Rivers

C. Power Calculations for Hydropower
1. Introduction
2. Rate of the Water
3. Volume and Flow Comparisons
4. Design Flow and Percent Flow
5. The Head
6. Calculating Power: Basic Equations
7. Calculating Power: Specific Equations

D. Micro-Hydro
1. Introduction
2. Measuring for Feasibly and Design
3. Changing the River, Building Dams
4. Turbine Selection
5. Batteries and Emergency Generators