A Sustainable and Eco-Efficient Pico Hydroelectric Technology for Decentralized Power Generation in Remote Hydrological Environments

Maria Carmela F. Capul; Jhoncell Loyola; Kyla Marie Mostizo; Fiacre Duncan Oida

doi:10.32871/rmrj1302si.i2502

Authors

Maria Carmela F. Capul Electrical Engineering, Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna (MITL), Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna, Cabuyao City, Philippines https://orcid.org/0009-0003-7623-2537
Jhoncell Loyola Electrical Engineering, Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna (MITL), Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna, Cabuyao City, Philippines https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3100-5993
Kyla Marie Mostizo Electrical Engineering, Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna (MITL), Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna, Cabuyao City, Philippines https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7549-6751
Fiacre Duncan Oida Electrical Engineering, Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna (MITL), Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna, Cabuyao City, Philippines https://orcid.org/0009-0008-2675-0156

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32871/rmrj1302si.i2502

Keywords:

alternative source of energy, remote areas, pico-hydroelectric turbine, IC-type alternator, electricity generation, mechanical and electrical design, sustainable energy solutions, off-grid power generation, turbine efficiency testing, renewable energy engineering

Abstract

Background: The increasing electricity demand, driven by rapid population growth, necessitates the exploration of sustainable and alternative energy sources, particularly in remote areas. This study aims to develop and assess the performance of a portable pico-hydroelectric turbine designed to provide clean, off-grid energy for essential needs such as lighting and phone charging.
Methods: The prototype, constructed from stainless steel, includes four 6-in floats, pulleys, V-belts, a 12 V DC IC-type alternator, a 12 V battery, and a 200 W inverter (12 V DC to 220-240 V AC). Field testing was conducted in the Nagcarlan River, Liliw, Laguna, Philippines to measure voltage, frequency, and power output using a multimeter.
Results: The results indicated a steady 220–240 V AC at 57.9 Hz, generating 50 W to power two lights and a phone charger for up to 1.5 hours. Performance remained stable under varying water head conditions, demonstrating the system’s reliability, portability, and suitability for basic household energy needs in rural or off-grid areas.
Conclusion: As a reliable and sustainable alternative energy source, this system demonstrates strong potential for electricity generation in remote areas with moderate to high-flow water sources, offering a practical solution for off-grid power needs and contributing to future energy management practices.

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A Sustainable and Eco-Efficient Pico Hydroelectric Technology for Decentralized Power Generation in Remote Hydrological Environments

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