The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO) has recently taken a significant step towards enhancing the hydropower sector by selecting 12 innovative hydropower technology developers to receive support through the Hydropower Testing Network (HyTN). This initiative aims to advance the readiness and development of hydropower technologies, ensuring their reliability and efficiency as a renewable energy resource. The selected developers will benefit from the expertise and resources available across HyTN’s 18 test facilities, marking a strategic enhancement in the hydropower sector.
Technological Advancements in Hydropower
Refining Materials and Novel Systems
One of the primary focuses of the selected developers is the refinement of materials and the development of novel systems to improve the reliability and efficiency of hydropower facilities. For instance, Carpenter Technology Corporation is evaluating the performance of the advanced A-21 alloy at Argonne National Laboratory. This robust and wear-resistant stainless steel aims to enhance the reliability of hydropower system bearings by preventing corrosion and reducing downtime. Enhanced materials like the A-21 alloy can significantly improve the durability and longevity of hydropower components, leading to less frequent maintenance and reduced operational costs.
Similarly, Continuous Solutions is developing and testing a generator and inverter system at the Distributed Energy Technologies Laboratory at Sandia National Laboratories. This system is designed for 10-to-100-kilowatt-scale microhydro turbine systems, ideal for remote or off-grid locations. The focus areas include electrical standards, turbine design validation, and system performance under varying environmental conditions. By addressing these critical areas, the developed technologies aim to provide efficient and reliable energy solutions for communities that are otherwise difficult to connect to the central power grid. This development could lead to significant advancements in the deployment of microhydro systems, providing a much-needed renewable energy source to isolated areas.
Incorporating Environmentally Friendly Solutions
Many projects emphasize reducing environmental impacts, including preventing biofouling, minimizing the hazardous effects of lubricants, and protecting aquatic wildlife. For example, Optical Waters Inc. is testing optical fibers emitting ultraviolet light at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This chemical-free, biofouling prevention solution aims to improve efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. By implementing such technologies, the hydropower sector can ensure that aquatic ecosystems remain unaffected by operational activities. Moreover, these solutions can lead to significant savings in maintenance and operational expenditures, given the reduced need for chemical applications and mechanical cleanings.
Prometheus Innovations, LLC is evaluating a composite polymer coating at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. This coating minimizes the environmental impacts of biofouling and aims to optimize hydropower facility performance. These environmentally friendly solutions are crucial for ensuring the sustainability of hydropower as a renewable energy source. Using such advanced coatings not only enhances the efficiency and performance of hydropower plants but also reduces their ecological footprint. This dual benefit underscores the importance of integrating green technologies into renewable energy systems as a means of achieving broader environmental goals.
Enhancing Performance and Efficiency
Improving Existing Performance Measures
The selected developers are also focused on improving existing performance measures to achieve better efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and increased energy output. Kingsbury, Inc. is evaluating fluid film bearing components at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, with a special focus on surface finishes, lubricants, and materials to improve the reliability, performance, and efficiency of hydropower units’ generators. By fine-tuning these components, Kingsbury aims to extend the operational life of generators while enhancing their performance metrics. This endeavor is critical in safeguarding the reliability of hydropower facilities and ensuring consistent energy output without significant downtime.
KW River Hydroelectric, Inc. is testing a prototype crossflow turbine system at Verdantas’ Hooper Facility. This system is designed to generate electricity while eliminating unsafe water current conditions below dams, with performance testing under real-world conditions. These improvements in performance measures are essential for the long-term viability of hydropower. The advancements resulting from these tests could pave the way for more efficient and safer hydropower installations, allowing for optimized energy production while maintaining the structural integrity and safety of the surrounding environment.
Application of Cutting-edge Technologies
Developers are employing advanced materials, artificial intelligence, and composite coatings to push the boundaries of what current hydropower systems can achieve. Radmantis is testing a fish classification and diversion device at Verdantas’ Fish Passage Survival and Behavior Steel Testing Flume Facility. This device uses AI to classify and divert fish, aimed at providing selective fish passage in hydropower facilities. By integrating AI technology, Radmantis hopes to create a system that not only improves operational efficiency but also significantly reduces the environmental impact of hydropower plants by protecting aquatic wildlife.
River Connectivity Systems is testing biofouling-resistant coatings at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The focus is on a selective withdrawal screen to reduce the spread of invasive species and improve downstream water quality. These cutting-edge technologies are pivotal in ensuring the future viability of hydropower. By leveraging advanced materials and coatings, River Connectivity Systems aims to enhance the performance and ecological footprint of hydropower facilities. Such innovations could play a fundamental role in the transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
Environmental Conservation Efforts
Protecting Aquatic Wildlife
Several projects emphasize the protection of aquatic wildlife, which is a critical aspect of environmental conservation in hydropower development. Littoral Power Systems, Inc. is evaluating a louver design for water intake pipes at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. This louver prevents fish from entering turbines, with specific emphasis on species common on the East Coast. By implementing such designs, hydropower plants can drastically reduce the negative impact on fish populations, ensuring that turbines operate without posing significant risks to aquatic wildlife.
Verterra Energy Inc. is observing fish interactions with modular hydropower technology at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The focus is on characterizing interactions with the turbine that operates in shallow water conditions. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the sustainability of hydropower projects. Understanding and mitigating these interactions is essential for the long-term acceptance and integration of hydropower systems within natural ecosystems, promoting a harmonious coexistence between renewable energy initiatives and environmental conservation efforts.
Reducing Environmental Hazards
VBASE Oil Company is analyzing environmentally acceptable lubricants at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The goal is to test alternatives to traditional lubricants to reduce environmental hazards while maintaining performance in preventing friction and wear. These initiatives are essential for minimizing the environmental footprint of hydropower facilities. By developing and implementing alternative lubricants, VBASE Oil Company aims to curtail the detrimental effects of conventional lubricants on aquatic systems and soil quality, thus advancing the environmental sustainability of hydropower operations.
InPipe Energy Inc. is developing an off-grid energy system at Continuous Solutions. This system converts excess pressure in water pipelines into renewable electricity, featuring a battery for consistent energy production and storage. These innovative solutions contribute to the overall goal of reducing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable energy practices. By harnessing unused energy potential, InPipe Energy’s technology showcases the capability of turning typically overlooked resources into valuable energy assets, providing a model for similar innovations in the future.
Phases of HyTN Voucher Opportunity
Phase 1: Testing Facility Selection
The initiative is broken down into three distinct phases, starting with the selection of testing facilities. Facilities applied to join the Hydropower Testing Network (HyTN), and selected facilities were matched with technology developers to receive support. The objective of this phase was to identify and engage research centers and laboratories capable of providing comprehensive testing services to hydropower developers. By leveraging the existing infrastructure and expertise of these facilities, the WPTO ensured that selected projects received the necessary technical and scientific support to advance their developmental goals.
During this phase, rigorous evaluations were conducted to ensure that the chosen facilities had the appropriate resources, capabilities, and personnel to handle the diverse range of projects proposed by the developers. This involved detailed assessments of the facility’s technological infrastructure, previous experience with hydropower projects, and capacity to meet the specific requirements of the selected developers. These meticulous selection criteria ensured that the most suitable facilities were integrated into the HyTN network, forming a robust support system for the entire initiative.
Phase 2: Technology Developer Selection and Matchmaking
The next phase involved the application and selection process for technology developers. Developers applied for the testing services offered through HyTN and were carefully evaluated based on their project proposals, technological innovation, and potential impact on the hydropower sector. The selection process aimed to identify the most promising projects that could benefit from the comprehensive testing and validation services provided by the network’s facilities. Successful developers were then matched with suitable test facilities, ensuring a tailored fit between the project’s needs and the facility’s capabilities.
Each selected developer received up to $250,000 in services to advance their technology readiness. This financial support enabled the developers to access critical testing and validation resources without bearing the entire cost burden. The matchmaking process was a strategic endeavor to foster strong collaborative partnerships between developers and testing facilities, laying the groundwork for successful project execution. By aligning the strengths and resources of both parties, the initiative aimed to accelerate the development and commercialization of cutting-edge hydropower technologies.
Phase 3: Project Execution
The final phase revolves around the actual execution of the projects, where developers and facilities determine the scope of work, establish contracts, and commence the testing and validation activities. This phase is crucial as it involves the real-world application of the proposed technologies, with an emphasis on rigorous testing under diverse environmental and operational conditions. Detailed project plans were formulated to outline the specific objectives, testing methodologies, and performance metrics to be assessed during this phase. Collaborative efforts between developers and test facilities ensured that the projects were meticulously monitored and evaluated to achieve the desired outcomes.
The execution phase also included regular progress reviews and data analysis to track the advancements and address any emerging challenges promptly. By maintaining clear communication channels and a structured approach to project management, the WPTO facilitated a seamless flow of activities, ensuring that each project progressed within the established timelines. This phase was integral to translating the theoretical innovations into practical and scalable solutions, setting the stage for the commercial deployment and broader adoption of the developed hydropower technologies.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO) has made a significant advancement in the hydropower sector. They have selected 12 innovative hydropower technology developers to receive support via the Hydropower Testing Network (HyTN). This move is part of an initiative aimed at advancing the development and readiness of hydropower technologies. The initiative will ensure reliability and efficiency in hydropower as a renewable energy resource. These selected developers will gain access to the wealth of expertise and resources available across HyTN’s 18 test facilities. This strategic move highlights a considerable enhancement in developing and refining hydropower technologies. By leveraging the capabilities and knowledge within the HyTN, the WPTO and the participating developers are well-positioned to drive significant progress in renewable energy efficiency. This initiative underscores the DOE’s commitment to sustainable and reliable energy sources, crucial for future energy demands.