Hydro Electricity Generation

Hydro power uses the energy in falling water to generate electricity. To work effectively either a high rate of flow of water (such as a river) or a high head or drop (such as a waterfall) is needed – preferably both. The electricity can be stored with the use of batteries or connected to the grid. A battery system is particularly appropriate for locations not already connected to the grid. Grid connection requires an inverter and a generation meter.

The economics of installing hydro power have improved dramatically with the introduction of mandatory feed in tariffs (FITs). The FITs will pay approximately 20.9p/kWh for hydropower-generated, typically totalling around £880 per year (index-linked and tax-free) for every kW peak capacity installed for 20 years, plus the savings on electricity not bought in. There is also an export tariff of 3p/kWh payable for 20 years from installation, based on an assumed export of 50%, unless the system has an import/export meter fitted, which will measure the exact amounts.

If you believe your property is suitable for hydro power, please read our hydro case study for tips, information & contacts.

All About Woods with Bishop’s Castle Community College

Bishop’s Castle Community College year sevens had a great day out in the local woods recently.

One of the activities was to learn how safely to fell and tidy up a tree using only bow saws and loppers. They worked in small teams and were instructed by Gary Cowell of Knighton Tree Allotments Trust.

Another activity was ‘Wildlife Roleplay’ with Jenny Ogden where students enacted interviews taking on the identity of pollinating insects.

The third activity was ‘An Eye for Detail’ with Toni Pettit who sent the students hither and thither searching for specific trees and plants she had given clues for in mysterious little paper bags.

The project was hosted by local charity Lightfoot Enterprises, who joined in and helped with the activities. It was a ‘taster’ session for the enrichment activities the students can choose in the autumn term over eight weeks.

The project is supported by the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). One the students said, “The best thing today was learning how to cut a tree in the direction you want it to fall. It was fun when we used the tools to cut the smaller branches. The funniest thing was watching the others wearing flower hats and bee hats!”

Alison Weeks of Lightfoot said, “Thanks to Helen Plastow and the team of staff from the school who were there on the day organising and helping to make sure everyone got the most out of the day.”

For more information on ‘Woods for All’ go to http://www.lightfootenergy.org.uk/woodlands-for-all/