Hydroelectric Power Calculator
Calculate the theoretical power and annual energy production of a hydroelectric plant using flow rate, hydraulic head, turbine efficiency, and capacity factor. Review potential revenue and payback period.
Average volumetric flow through the turbine.
Vertical distance between water intake and turbine runner.
Combined electro-mechanical efficiency (typical range 70–90%).
Represents seasonal water variability (small hydro: 30–60%).
Rated power
2,501.55 kW
Annual generation
10,956.79 MWh
Households powered
1,023,998.97 homes
Estimated payback period
0.76 years
How to Use This Calculator
Measure river characteristics
Gather the average flow rate and net head between the intake and the turbine site.
Estimate equipment performance
Select realistic efficiency and capacity factor values based on turbine type and seasonal flow.
Review power and payback metrics
Use the calculated outputs to assess project feasibility and financial returns.
Formula
Power = ρ × g × Q × H × η
Energy = Power × Capacity Factor × 8760
Payback = Installation Cost ÷ (Energy × Price)
Example: 12 m³/s × 1000 kg/m³ × 9.81 × 25 m × 0.85 = 2.5 MW. With a 50% capacity factor, annual generation is 10.9 GWh.
Multiply annual generation by electricity price to estimate revenue.
About the Hydroelectric Power Calculator
Hydroelectric plants convert the potential energy of water into electricity through turbines and generators. This tool estimates output for run-of-river or small reservoir systems using standard engineering equations.
When to Use This Calculator
- Feasibility studies: Evaluate potential sites before detailed engineering.
- Educational projects: Demonstrate how flow and head influence energy.
- Financial modeling: Combine with cost data to gauge ROI timelines.
- Policy analysis: Estimate renewable generation potential for planning.
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Physics-based: Uses core hydroelectric equations for quick estimates.
- ✅ Financial insight: Integrates revenue and payback calculations.
- ✅ Scenario ready: Adjust parameters instantly for sensitivity analysis.
- ✅ User-friendly: No spreadsheets required for preliminary assessments.
Common Applications
Micro-hydro developers: Size turbines for remote communities.
Utility planners: Evaluate expansion of existing dams or diversions.
Academia: Support engineering coursework and lab activities.
Tips for Best Results
- Account for seasonal flow variation when choosing capacity factor.
- Use measured net head after considering friction and penstock losses.
- Combine with environmental assessments to ensure project viability.
- Update electricity prices to reflect feed-in tariffs or PPAs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between gross and net head?
Gross head measures elevation difference between water levels. Net head subtracts hydraulic losses in penstocks and fittings. Use net head for accurate power estimates.
How do I choose efficiency?
Refer to manufacturer data. Kaplan and Francis turbines can exceed 90% at design conditions, while micro turbines may operate near 70–80%.
Does the calculator include transmission losses?
No. The output reflects turbine and generator efficiency only. Add a small derate (1–3%) to account for transformer and line losses if needed.
Can this be used for pumped storage?
Pumped storage requires additional inputs for pumping energy. This tool is best suited for conventional run-of-river and dam-based systems.