Application of Micro-Hydropower Technology for Remote Regions

Over 200,000 Canadians, living in over 300 remote communities or in residential homes are not connected to the National Grid. These communities are usually served by electric utilities with local distribution grids and many of these communities need to generate their own electric power, typically using diesel fuel. As a result, the cost of energy is many times higher in remote communities than in the rest of Canada as fuel transportation costs are high. Grid extensions are too costly or impractical for such communities. Small and micro hydro is an attractive renewable energy source for remote communities looking to reduce the high cost of energy production and to reduce GHG emissions. Micro-hydropower development is a complex process and technical expertise is essential in the design and construction phases. The major barriers to uptake of this technology are the high up-front costs for civil works and equipment, technical expertise for design and construction and the lengthy approval process. This paper will review existing and emerging unique technologies that increase the viability of micro-hydropower as a cost-effective energy source for remote communities and for net-metering consumers near urban centres. There are Canadian technologies that have contributed to the international development of micro-hydropower industry. The impact of these technologies will be analysed highlighting the unique Canadian approach.