Can I generate power from a river?

Question

I live along side the Mississippi River, is there a way I could generate power from the huge current of the river to generate a small home?

Answer 1

you might be able to extend a water-wheel into the river, hooked up to a generator. Might not totally power things, but could maybe provide some power.

Answer 2

I'm sure you could get the proper permits to build a small water wheel. If you have "dock" rights on the river, that should be enough space to get a wheel far enough out into the current. But like the guy above says, it is not a weekend project.


without knowing flow rates, and flow volumes, I can't tell you how much power you could generate. Just "off the cuff" I would say you might be able to build a wheel/generator that could provide sufficient power for your home -- at least lower your power bill significantly


.

Answer 3

You may not. That is highly regulated and controlled by the government. You don't stand a chance of getting the permits. Imagine what the river would look like if we had every property owner installing Rube Goldberg contraptions along it.

Answer 4

Yes. But be aware that you may have to get permits and might be restricted in doing so. Just as long as you have sufficient water flow, there are several options, such as a floating paddlewheel type device, or even an underwater propeller or turbine type. However like I mentioned, you may be restricted from doing so, and although I cannot tell you it would be okay, you might be able to construct a low impact system clandestinely. That part depends on who you have for neighbors and such...

Answer 5

In theory, sure. However, you have to work out the technical issues of doing so and you have to asses any potential legal and environmental issues. Doing this would be a little more involved that a weekend project.

Answer 6

no. you need a certain height of water fall to have enough energy to generate electricity.