Water

Water is a powerful source of electricity, which can be captured in rivers and streams and generated through run-of-the-river systems (not obstructing the flow of the river) or through a dam (which uses a stored water body to provide energy). Water is also often used as a medium to transfer energy from the sun, the earth, or biomass to generate and store heat, such as for domestic water or space heating.

Hydro Turbines
One of the most environmentally friendly ways to generate electricity using water or to generate electricity in general is with a device called a micro-hydro turbine. Micro-hydro turbines can produce up to 100 kilowatts of energy, but the amount of energy depends on the river or stream, with larger flows producing more energy.

Other Technologies
There are other technologies and techniques that do not generate electricity, but do help to reduce electricity use and conserve water.

Composting Toilets - Not only do these toilets not mix good drinking water with human waste, they compost the waste which over time can be used for putting into forests or other areas away from human use.

Rain Water Harvesting - Through some very simple technologies rainwater can be used for a variety of outdoor needs.

You can find more information on our Water Energy Page, or by checking out the links on the right side of the page.