How do I build my own water power system. I have a fast flowing stream 200 ft. down a hill from my house.?

Question

I want to utilize existing power of stream if possible. Maybe a wind turbine is also a possibility. I'm in the middle of lots of trees so solar power is probably only available in winter.

Answer 1

Start with an Internet search for hydroelectric power generation kit. You should learn enough to determine if you will want to build one yourself, or go another route.

Answer 2

My daughter and her husband were thinking of a wind turbine on their farm in Northern Minnesota. They checked out all the avenues for these wind powered machines.
Some of the most economical were over fifteen thousand dollars or more, that would work for them. Something that was actually in the working capacity and not just as a hobby craft thing.

By the time they would have it going and working they figured it would have cost them in excess of twenty thousand dollars or more, it would take them all their lives and maybe into their daughters lives to save anything off it. With all the work involved, it was to much. They dropped it.

It's a good idea but, will it work for you economically?

Answer 3

The water is flowing down hill from your house, you'll have to tap in uphill so water will drain down hill. Duh, do you have a college nearby who could help design a system with the water pressure you have in this stream??? Never underestimate what a college is willing to do for you.

Answer 4

check out otherpower.com