Hydropower Calculator
Estimate the mechanical and annual electrical output of a hydro turbine from head, flow rate and overall system efficiency.
How to Use the Hydropower Calculator
- Enter the net head in metres.
- Enter the flow rate in cubic metres per second.
- Enter the overall efficiency percentage.
- Click Calculate to see hydraulic power and annual energy.
使用例
- •Micro-hydro feasibility studies.
- •Dam and run-of-river sizing.
- •Renewable-energy education.
計算式
P = ρ · g · h · Q · η, with ρ = 1000 kg/m³ and g = 9.81 m/s². Annual energy = P × 8760 hours.
よくある質問
What efficiency should I use?
Well-designed modern turbines reach 80–92%. Micro-hydro installations including penstock losses and generator losses are often 50–70%.
Why multiply by 8760?
That is the number of hours in a year. The result is a theoretical maximum — real output depends on the seasonal flow duration curve.
Is this gross or net head?
Use the net head (measured head minus penstock friction losses). Using the gross head overestimates the power.