Micro-Hydro Power for Off Grid Living

People who are interested in off grid living often have problems finding alternative sources of energy that can keep them independent from the electricity companies. Solar panel and wind turbine technologies have improved significantly over the past few decades, but it is still difficult to rely on them when one lives in an area with unpredictable weather patterns. Acreage for sale with streams or other water sources, however, offers a more consistent alternative energy source -- micro-hydro power.

What Is Micro-Hydro Power?

Micro hydroelectric power uses the flow of water to create energy. People have used water from rivers to power their machines for centuries, but today’s micro-hydro power equipment makes off grid living possible even if there is only a stream on the property. If the acreage for sale your purchase has a steady stream that does not dry up during certain parts of the year, then it could be possible for families to completely rely on micro hydroelectric power instead of utility companies.

How Does Micro-Hydro Power Work?

The basic science behind micro hydroelectric power is fairly simple. It uses the kinetic energy from water flowing down a stream to operate a turbine that creates electricity.

Micro-hydro power systems use an intake box to divert water from the stream and prevent debris from flowing into the system. The water moves through a pipe that is connected to a turbine. The pressure of the water rushing through the turbine causes it to move, which generates electricity. Excess energy is then stored in batteries or diverted to a dump load.

What Kind of Acreage for Sale Supports Micro-Hydro Power?

Not all acreage for sale is suitable for micro-hydro power. The land needs to have a stream that generates enough water pressure to move the turbine. This usually requires a fairly large incline in the land.

Using this alternative source of energy year round also requires a steady stream that does not freeze or dry up during certain seasons of the year. Some areas might have streams with enough force to create electricity with a micro-hydro power system throughout most of the year, but people living on the land will need to rely on other alternative sources of energy or utility companies during dry seasons.

Is Micro Hydroelectric Power Affordable?

People living off the grid can choose from many different micro-hydro power systems. Some of them cost more than others. For about 2,000 dollars, you can purchase a system that will power a small house under the right conditions. This is a lot of money up front, but the long-term pay off is certainly worth it.

When you rely on micro hydroelectric power instead of the local utility company, you can easily save money within just a few years. Many of the systems are also less expensive than other alternative sources of energy that produce the same amount of power.

If you want to rely on micro-hydro power for off grid living, then you will want to choose acreage for sale that has the proper conditions. Look for an area with a fast flowing stream on an incline. You might also want to contact several micro-hydro power equipment suppliers to make sure you purchase land that supports a system that you can afford.