KEY ON HAND
At BEZER Consultoría de Ingeniería we specialize in design, acquisition and construction (EPC) services for small hydroelectric power plants (PCH) "turnkey" type in projects: commercial, industrial, residential, government, etc.
When we work with our clients, there are no intermediaries. We are responsible for the development of the electrical and structural engineering project, the purchase of equipment and support structure, as well as the commissioning and service and its subsequent maintenance. Ensuring the customer that they receive a first-class renewable energy solution, perfect for their property and adjusted to their budget.
WHAT ARE SMALL HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS (SHP)?
Small hydroelectric power plants (SHP) or mini-power plants or micro power plants are those power plants that take advantage of small hydraulic jumps and that are characterized by having a reduced installed power (powers less than 10 MW), which implies the use of much smaller structures and safer than a normal hydroelectric.
There are three types:
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Hydroelectric Peak: refers to small power plants that produce hydroelectric energy of less than 5 kW. In general, these are small hydroelectric plants for self-consumption of isolated services.
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Micro hydroelectric: refers to small hydroelectric plants with powers ranging from 5 kW to 100 kW.
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Mini hydroelectric: refers to small hydroelectric plants with powers ranging from 100 kW to 1000 kW.
Although in both cases the energy is produced from a water-powered turbine, a micro hydroelectric plant or small hydroelectric plant cannot be compared to a real hydroelectric plant.
The small hydroelectric plant does not foresee the construction of dams because it exploits the movement of water that flows in natural courses: the water that flows down causes the turbine to rotate to generate electricity.
Small hydroelectric plants, both pico, mini and micro, are generally characterized by modest hydraulic jumps and by flows that are not comparable with those of large plants.
How does a micro-electrical system work?
The water that flows in the river, moves a turbine, the mechanical energy rotates an alternator transforming this kinetic energy into electrical energy.
Micro hydroelectric plants can be installed in different contexts, even in water courses or artificial pools. Pico hydroelectric plants with a size of 2 to 5 kW have a single turbine placed directly in the watercourse, while in micro hydroelectric plants it is necessary to build structures (appropriate intake and diversion channels, charging or diversion tanks with a forced duct) that allow taking part of the channel that drives the turbine. After operating the turbine, the water is returned to the downstream main channel.
The most widely used turbines in micro hydroelectric plants are, without a doubt, Pelton and Banki or Cross-Flow, ideal for limited water flows.
Benefits of small hydroelectric plants (micro-hydropower):
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Sustainable energy from a renewable energy source: water.
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Kinetic energy is harnessed on-site without generating driving or transportation costs.
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Low environmental and landscape impact.
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It does not consume any fuel and does not pollute the environment.
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Minimum initial investment for civil works and equipment.
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A minimal cost of operation and maintenance.
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Continuous operation.
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Production of electricity in isolated places.
Applications
According to the method of water supply, small hydropower plants are classified into two main types:
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Plants built in different types of watercourses (rivers, streams, irrigation canals, etc.)
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Plants in water pipes and aqueducts (It consists of the recovery of energy from the water transported by the aqueducts to the treatment plants for its purification, before being distributed to the end users.)
INSTALLATION PROCESS
BEZER Consultoría de Ingeniería will guide you through each stage of your project, from evaluating the site and its energy productivity, system design, supply, installation, to operations and maintenance services.
1- CUSTOMIZED PRIOR STUDY
Prospecting technical visit to know the idea and characteristics of the project. Carrying out a personalized preliminary study, which will allow you to know which is the best efficient alternative in your case. Advice and preparation of the necessary documents to obtain the permits before the competent authorities.
Carrying out the environmental impact study.
Advice and support in the decision-making of the financing of the project.
Financial analysis of the investment.
2- INSTALLATION DESIGN
The connection can be made with the medium voltage network for spot sales as well as for self-consumption.
At BEZER we will study the most suitable design to save energy and we will analyze all the options and opportunities available, meeting your expectations and requirements.
3- INSTALLATION, CERTIFICATION AND START-UP
With our turnkey BEZER service we will take care of everything so that you do not have to worry about anything. We will take care of supplying the equipment and ensuring that the installation works meet the best quality conditions. We will help you in the processing of licenses and permits necessary for the construction and start-up of your plant.
4- HELP IN THE PROCESSING OF SUBSIDIES AND CREDITS
We will inform you promptly about the current subsidies to which you can receive, both from state agencies and private institutions. We will help you make your dream come true through a suitable financial analysis and a personalized investment amortization plan in your pocket.
5- MAINTENANCE AND AFTER SALE GUARANTEE
We will periodically review your installation, checking the status of all its components, to ensure its optimal operation and an adequate and constant level of energy production over time.
In case of damage to the system, you will only have to notify us so that we can provide you with the necessary technical assistance and manage the equipment warranties against the manufacturer.