Development of microhydropower plants for small rivers in the Chelyabinsk region mining zone

Small hydroelectric power generation is attractive from both an environmental and economic point of view. Technological innovations and mitigation measures are making small hydroelectric power plants an inexpensive and viable source of renewable energy which can be generated independently. They contribute not only to environmental protection, but also reduce human dependence on fossil fuels. This study is dedicated to finding solutions based on renewable energy source technologies and innovations using the example of the Chelyabinsk region. The experimental model of a micro-hydroelectric power station water wheel presented in this article, and the studies carried out on the basis of this model were used to carry out preliminary calculations. As a result, we found that such micro-hydroelectric power plants are capable of generating about 9-13 kW∙h, about 170-266 kW∙h/day and from 63 to 99 MW∙h/year.