Run-Of-River Hydro May Expand Tenfold over Next Decade

“Run-of-river” hydro power, gentler and smaller-scale than massive hydroelectric projects that irretrievably flood huge areas of land, may become a $1.4 billion-dollar industry in the next 10 years, according to Tocardo International BV, a Dutch turbine maker.

To many, run-of-river technology represents the most environmentally friendly hydropower because it lacks the enormous investment and impacts of traditional impoundment projects. Tocardo general director Hans van Breugel explains its appeal to companies and investors:

The advantages of river-turbine projects are you don’t need to build infrastructure, they’re easy to install and maintain, and they can be easily connected to the local grid.  Within a year you can start installing these projects, whereas hydropower projects can take 12 to 15 years.

Run-Of-River Hydro May Expand Tenfold over Next Decade