Micro-hydropower: Status and prospects

Hydropower on a small scale, or micro-hydro, is one of the most cost-effective energy technologies to be considered for rural electrification in less developed countries. It is also the main prospect for future hydro developments in Europe, where the large-scale opportunities either have been exploited already or would now be considered environmentally unacceptable. Whereas large hydro schemes often involve the construction of major dams and the flooding of whole valleys, micro-hydro is one of the most environmentally benign energy technologies available. The technology is extremely robust and systems can last for 50 years or more with little maintenance.