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Micro Hydropower System Installer

The use of water to harness energy has been around for thousands of years but it is only in the modern times that it has been employed to generate electrical energy, which is called hydropower.

The career outlook for a micro-hydropower system installer is good. They make on average $40-$50 thousand a year.

What the Job Does

The job of a micro hydropower system installer is to design, construct, and maintain micro hydro systems. With the job come work responsibilities that include, but not necessarily limited to:

* Site evaluation for the capacity of the water source
* System design in accordance with source vis-Ã -vis client needs and existing structures
* System construction for the electrical and mechanical components including pipes, turbines, generator, inverter, charge controller, battery, and the wiring system
* System maintenance and troubleshooting after construction
* Educate owners on safety procedures
* Secure permits when and where necessary

Why It Is Green

The use of micro hydropower is an eco-friendly method of resource generation for many reasons. First, by tapping into renewable energy resources like water, it lessens dependence on "dirty" fuels like coal and nuclear energy. Second, it does not radically alter the environment since only a small portion of the water source is diverted to power the whole system. By extension, the job of a micro hydropower system installer is green.

What It Takes, Personally and Professionally

To become a micro hydropower system installer, you must possess personal qualities like attention to detail, versatility, and flexibility to adapt to new situations and challenges and to deal with various people, and ability to deliver on responsibilities required of the job.

Also, you will need to possess proper permits and licenses from government authorities, with membership in trade organizations a definite plus. Of course, individuals can perform DIY micro hydropower projects but this is not advisable due to state regulations and safety considerations.

To secure proper training in the field, you can enroll in the various training courses offered by online sites and technical schools. Topics discussed usually include classroom and field instructions on site evaluation, system design, system components, turbine types, battery storage, electrical and mechanical systems, safety procedures, maintenance, and troubleshooting, with the addition of business classes depending on the curriculum.

Micro Hydropower System Installer Resources

*The Micro-Hydro Pelton Turbine Manual: Design, Manufacture and Installation for Small-Scale Hydro-Power
*21st Century Complete Guide to Hydropower, Hydroelectric Power, Dams, Turbine, Safety, Environmental Impact, Microhydropower, Impoundment, Pumped Storage, Diversion, Run-of-River (CD-ROM)

Hydropower Jobs

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