Micro hydroelectric project: A case study

Our modern lifestyle is so much dependent on electrical energy that we are now unable to continue to exist without it. The demand of electric energy continues to grow every day. Hydroelectric energy is obtained from the energy contained in falling water; it is a renewable, virtually non-polluting energy source and Canada's largest source of electric-power generation.;Hydroelectric power plants are feasible when there is an adequate supply of water coupled with sufficient hydraulic head. In Nova Scotia, water and low to medium hydraulic head is available across the province.;For the purpose of this project the aquafarm at 7 Sunnybrook Lane in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia was chosen as the case study. As part of the study various turbines and its hydraulic configurations were studied to arrive at the most economical setup.;In this case study an environmental screening and impact assessment on Martins Brook and its surrounding area were done to determine the feasibility to generate electric power from Martins Brook in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia at two locations. The study proved the economic feasibility of the project, with further studies this concept may be adapted at various other similar locations in the province. The federal and the provincial governments already have programs in place to partially fund these types of projects, as an incentive for private entrepreneurs.;Large and Small Hydroelectric energy generation still remains by far the most important of the "renewable" electrical energy production worldwide, providing 19% of the earth's electricity.