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
• • 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.