A simple method to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of micro hydro power plants in existing irrigation systems

摘要

A simple method is proposed to site turbines and choose their power output, evaluate costs and incomes and provide useful indications for Micro Hydro Power (MHP) plant design in existing irrigation systems. This method, based on simple models available in literature and requiring a reduced number of input parameters easy to survey in preliminary design stages, has been applied and verified in an existing irrigation system located in Calabria (Italy).