Our Preliminary Design Study has been devised as a cost-effective alternative to the multi-phase scoping, feasibility and design studies commonly used in the development of larger hydro schemes. By combining the key elements of all of these phases into a single site visit and report we have effectively reduced the pre-permissions cost of our micro-hydro systems.
The purpose of this service is to provide the client with enough information to:
make an informed decision on the viability of project
engage with the regulatory authorities with a view to securing planning, abstraction and grid connection permissions[1]
To keep our overheads low we use a standard assessment procedure on all sites. This entails:
- Ordering flow data and maps for the project
- Surveying the site, collecting information on:
- The head available
- The flow on the day of survey
- Local infrastructure (electricity network etc)
- The Watercourse environment
- Review of the site with reference to SEPA guidance. If critical constraints are identified then a summary report will be produced to minimize costs incurred.
- Compilation of full Preliminary Design Report if there are no critical constraints or if the client wishes to proceed regardless.
Deliverables
- Preliminary design report outlining the optimum system for the site, includes:
- Full breakdown of key parameters (head, flow, pipe diameter etc)
- Estimates of the maximum power, average energy yield and income expected from the system
- Detailed breakdown of estimated cost
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- Maps of the proposed system layout
- Drawings of the proposed intake and turbine house
- Financial analysis outlining payback, risk etc
- Identification of any designations such as special areas of conservation and advice about what this means for the system.
- Comment on potential impact on protected species
- A photographic assessment of the terrain and ground cover within the site.
- A draft construction method statement.
- All the relevant data required to complete the Abstraction application forms.
- Predicted flow report
- All digital maps purchased for the project
[1] Some additional design work is likely to be required after discussions with stakeholders.