Introduction

Abstract

The topic of the book is introduced, based on existing power plants and machinery, and the main definition of hydropower technology is given. Power plants are differentiated in terms of plant size, stream characteristics and field of application, and the design constraints in energy production within pressurized networks are described. In this chapter, specifically, conventional hydro turbines applied in micro/pico-hydropower stations are presented. The pump, as an effective alternative device operating as a turbine, is introduced and compared with more expensive conventional turbines. Finally, the field of application of the pump as a turbine (PAT) is presented and discussed. The reader will be introduced to the particular characteristics of small hydropower plants and will become acquainted with the terminology used by professionals. In particular, he/she will be made aware of the specific problem of energy recovery in water distribution networks for different industrial sectors.