Run-of-River Hydrokinetics

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Does run-of-river hydro have the potential to make a contribution to our energy mix?  Yes, in parts of the world that have incredible hydro resources that are hard to service with competitive technologies.  By “incredible,” I mean strong, nearby rivers that lose elevation quickly, either by running down steep hills, or doubling back with hairpin turns.

Are the claims of inventors like those featured in this video valid?  No.  Not only are good resources hard to find, but their concept of forcing the water to go in a small circle is nonsensical; the only things that should slow the water down are the turbine blades themselves.

Those wishing to learn about how all this happens in the real world are invited to watch the video below.