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Non-Tech : Alternative energy -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Doren who wrote (7905)	4/21/2010 2:31:03 PM
From: Eric	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 16955

Doren You have to look at hydropower from two directions simultaneously. The mechanical efficiency (that is turning falling water or water pressure and mass into mechanical energy). Electric efficiency of the generator or alternator (the efficiency of turning mechanical motion into electrons). Turbines in dams come in a number of different forms and we have seen efficiency improvements in them the last thirty years. Especially in regards to low head dams and decreasing fish mortality. There are some elegant new designs being put to use, especially on the Columbia river. The generator part ( or alternator in AC) has also gotten better. AMSC might help a little bit but that's a long run problem that will take a lot of $$ and the return won't be so big. IMHO