Author(s): Lucas Moretti and Anna Kowalska

Abstract: Small and micro hydropower systems play a critical role in expanding access to reliable, low-carbon electricity in remote and decentralized regions where large hydropower projects are technically, economically, or environmentally impractical. This research focuses on the design principles and performance evaluation of small and micro hydropower systems with the aim of supporting sustainable energy generation under diverse hydrological and site conditions. The abstract examines key design parameters, including head assessment, flow variability, turbine selection, electromechanical efficiency, and civil infrastructure optimization. Emphasis is placed on run-of-river configurations due to their reduced environmental footprint and suitability for rural electrification. Performance evaluation is carried out through analytical modeling and comparative assessment of efficiency, capacity factor, reliability, and lifecycle energy output. The influence of seasonal discharge variation, sediment load, and operational losses on system performance is critically discussed. Economic considerations, including capital cost, operation and maintenance requirements, and levelized cost of energy, are integrated to evaluate techno-economic feasibility. The findings highlight that appropriately designed small and micro hydropower systems can achieve high conversion efficiencies, stable power output, and long operational lifespans when matched carefully to local hydrological characteristics. The research also demonstrates that modular design approaches enhance scalability and resilience while reducing installation complexity. Overall, the work reinforces the potential of small and micro hydropower as a sustainable, locally adaptable energy solution that contributes to energy security, rural development, and greenhouse gas mitigation when supported by sound engineering design and performance-based evaluation frameworks. These insights provide practical guidance for engineers, planners, and policymakers seeking to deploy decentralized hydropower projects that align technical performance with social acceptance, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability goals across varied geographic and socio-economic contexts while supporting inclusive development, grid integration, and adaptive management strategies under changing climate and hydrological uncertainty conditions globally today and tomorrow for energy systems planning efforts.

DOI: 10.22271/27078302.2026.v7.i1a.81

Pages: 21-24 | Views: 2 | Downloads: 2

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