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Do you want to take a more active interest in hydroelectric power? Whether you're thinking about installing a micro-hydro scheme on your own property or you just want to find out about hydroelectric developments in your region, this section may help answer some of the questions you might have.
Yes. There a number of instances where people have decided to install micro-hydro schemes and, in general, even small-scale schemes provide sufficient power for a number of houses or a small community. The geography and geology of your surrounding area will play a major role in determining the feasibility and cost of the project.
The Government has recently announced that household microgeneration installations which have little or no impact beyond the host property will be permitted development (ie removing the need for specific planning consent). See the Planning Portal website for more information.
The Microgeneration Certification scheme evaluates products and installers against robust criteria for each of the microgeneration technologies, providing greater protection for consumers. Search for registered installers on the Low Carbon Buildings Programme website.
The Low Carbon Buildings Programme provides grants for the installation of microgeneration technologies in the UK (www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk). Public sector and charitable organisations should apply for funding through the Low Carbon Buildings Phase 2 website.
People based in Scotland can also apply for grants through the Scottish Community and Householders Initiative website.
People based in Northern Ireland can also apply for grants through the Reconnect website.
The British Hydropower Association can tell you more about developments in your area.
If you have further questions about hydroelectric power, visit our useful renewable energy links to find other organisations that can help you.
