Optimizing Sustainable Energy Implementation of An Innovative Hydroelectric Generator System
Optimizing Sustainable Energy Implementation of An Innovative Hydroelectric Generator System
Energy: Implementation of an
Innovative Hydroelectric
Generator System
A Capstone Project
presented to
the Faculty of the Science Department
La Purisima Concepcion Academy
In partial Fulfillment
of the requirements in the Capstone
by
Arasula, Reyneil
Lubi, Cedrick R.
Angeles, Jhean Cassey
Manalo, Irish Angel L.
LPCA - STEM 12
May 2024
CHAPTER 1
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
I. Introduction
development. However, a significant portion of the world population still faces problems
energy and electricity access. Despite the efforts for economic development, the National
households in the Philippines still lack access to electricity, with many residing in
healthcare, and economic development. The lack of electricity limits opportunities for
education, as students struggle to study after sunset, and healthcare facilities operate with
world. It is important to address this problem to ensure a more equitable and sustainable
future.
goals outlined in the National Renewable Energy Program (DOE, 2021). The
topographical diversity and numerous rivers present an opportunity to harness the
abundant water resources, hydroelectric power presents a practical option for establishing
a reliable and environmentally friendly energy source. Unlike other renewable resources,
hydroelectric power provides a constant and controllable energy supply, addressing the
intermittency issues associated with solar and wind power. Moreover, this approach
aligns with global efforts to transition towards sustainable energy solutions and positions
Electricity is essential in daily life, from being the source of lighting and heating
significantly to greenhouse gas emissions but also causes financial burdens due to its high
excessive electricity usage and aiding in cost reduction. Its objective is to develop a
A. Economy Growth
B. Community Development
fossil fuels?
This project is significant for financially challenged communities due to its ability
to provide affordable and sustainable electricity by harnessing the power from local water
sources. This hydroelectric generator offers a renewable energy solution with low costs,
reducing the financial burden on residents. Additionally, this project will benefit local
sustainability, by harnessing the power from the circulating water to generate electricity,
greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel power plants to generate electricity.
This clean electricity production helps lessen climate change and reduce air pollution,
Generator Manufacturers
manufacturers as it opens opportunities for their products by supplying the demands for
renewable energy solutions to lessen the concerns about climate change and challenges
due to fossil fuel power plants. This project will improve their standing within their
business industry given that their product provides access to clean and sustainable energy
sources.
Future Researchers
This project is significant for future researchers because it shows that the
prototype project can work. Through this project future researchers gain valuable insights
into the potential enhancements, paving the way for more efficient and reliable
hydroelectric power generation systems. By examining and analyzing the data regarding
its creation, future researchers can develop better ways to generate electricity. Moreover,
understanding how it can be used for different purposes and considering how much it
costs helps them decide where to invest in the future. Furthermore, it is a great way for
future researchers and engineers to learn about renewable energy, to inspire them to
innovate projects like this making the world more sustainable. Therefore, this project is
significant for them as this can serve as a guide for them to improve.
This project primarily focuses on the importance of electricity and the drawbacks
of excessive power consumption from fossil fuel power plants. It also explores the
emphasizing their potential to help conserve the environment and promote sustainability.
Furthermore, this study will delve into the procedures and materials required to execute
the project.
implemented, and its applicability to other systems or environments may not be explored.
Therefore, the findings and conclusions may not be generalizable to other hydroelectric
systems that differ in design, materials, and procedures used to produce the project.
V. Definition of Terms
1. Conservation - Using the resources wisely to avoid waste and protect them for the
future.
2. Economically Marginalized Areas - Communities with limited access to
3. Electricity - The flow of electric charge, commonly used as a form of energy for
4. Fossil Fuel Power Plant - A facility that burns fossil fuels like coal, oil, or natural
geographical barriers.
7. Sustainability - The ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising
technological innovation, and social progress. Beyond its role in enhancing productivity
electricity is no longer a privilege but a human right because power brings development.
Energy and electricity are central features of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable
transformational vision for the globe striving for a world where the environment of
humans and other species are safe, resilient, and sustainable. The 7th goal is to drive the
need for sustainable energy for social and economic activities. The goal advises
economies to prioritize access to reliable, affordable, modern, and efficient use of energy
The importance of electricity is present in the number of its uses in our day-to-day
use electricity. Computers and most children’s toys use electricity to operate. Modern
communication such as cell phones and computers run primarily with the use of
run by types of diesels. However, E-bikes and E-jeepneys are now present that utilize the
use of electricity to run. Furthermore, industry worldwide uses electricity in its everyday
having the large machine run with the help of electricity. Therefore, it is inconceivable to
electricity. Although it powers our global landscape, centuries passed without its
discovery, leaving nights shrouded in darkness save for sparse candlelight. Despite
humanity's endurance in its absence, the prospect of thriving without it is highly unlikely.
This is due to the development and growth that was possible as a result of the production
of electricity. The pivotal shift occurred when the notion of generating electricity and
infusing vitality into the world was introduced, marking a profound turning point in
history.
schools, hospitals, and retail facilities. In the medical realm, electricity enables the
utilization of X-rays and ECG machines and facilitates prompt results for blood tests,
machines such as computers and monitors, which play a crucial role in displaying and
analyzing medical data, thereby advancing the field of medicine. The absence of
electricity would severely hinder the progress of hospitals and medical practices, making
energy of moving water into electrical energy. It typically consists of turbines and
generators that harness the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. Water
flows through a turbine, which drives a generator to create electrical power. [5]
The amount of electricity generated depends on factors like the height of the
water source and the volume of water flowing through the turbine. Hydroelectric
generator systems play a crucial role in producing renewable energy by utilizing the
pioneered by Michael Faraday during the 19th century. Faraday's law dictates that when a
power stations, turbines transform the kinetic energy of water flow into mechanical
energy. This mechanical energy, in turn, rotates the generator's rotor, creating the
Economic Growth
In 2021, nearly 4.5% of the energy used in the Philippines came from
hydropower. Compared to solar at 0.7% and wind at 0.6%, this is significant, yet still far
below oil at 41.8% and coal at 40.2%. However, the share of renewable energy in the
Philippines will steadily increase over the next two decades as the country strives to meet
its National Renewable Energy Program target of over 20 GW by 2040. This program
projects across the country, totaling 13.5 GW of energy. This includes a new 350 MW
hydroelectric plant and a 240 MW pumped storage facility. This growth is partially due
to the government incentivizing existing local energy companies but also because the
announced it would allow full foreign ownership of some types of renewable energy
facilities, including large-scale hydro. This drives countries with extensive experience in
implementing hydropower facilities, like China, towards the Philippine market. It is good
regions. The construction of hydropower plants leads to increased GDP, tax revenues,
infrastructure, increase income levels, and offer ancillary services like flood control and
irrigation, benefiting local communities (Felipe Faria, Alex Davis, Edson Severnini,
power grids, contributing to affordable electricity prices and positively impacting the
importance of low operating costs, stable energy prices, and the role of hydropower in
reducing overall electricity costs for consumers. Furthermore, hydropower plants can
displace more expensive energy sources during peak demand, leading to cost savings for
consumers and revenue generation that benefits the economy [U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers). [9]
overall living standards. With over a century of established use, hydroelectricity is a tried
and tested technology, with comprehensible impacts that can be effectively managed
Community Development
sidestepping the reliance on fossil fuels and diminishing the release of carbon dioxide, as
mitigating pollution and the greenhouse effect. Similar to other sustainable energy
sources, its advantages tend to grow over time through enhanced performance, efficiency,
and material recycling, thereby lowering expenses and environmental footprint (Enel
conservation. Recognizing this, channels and passage ramps are commonly constructed
adjacent to dams and weirs, facilitating fish migration upstream or downstream (Enel
ensuring access to information and benefits, respecting their interests and values, and
energy sources like solar and wind into the power grid. Its capacity to consistently
intermittent sources. Through stabilizing the power supply, hydroelectric power boosts
energy security and facilitates the shift towards a more sustainable energy system (Gray
sustainable development. That means, "development that today addresses people's needs
without compromising the capacity of future generations for addressing their own needs"
from the World Commission on the Environment and Development (U.S. Geological
sustainability. Hydropower is a renewable and clean energy source that helps reduce
dependence on fossil fuels, cutting down global greenhouse gas emissions and aiding the
energy than other alternatives because it is clean, cheap, and environmentally friendly
with fossil and nuclear fuels. Small-micro hydropower, mini-micro hydropower, and
micro-scale hydropower all play important roles in rural electrification, and hydropower
has a considerably higher capacity than other sources of renewable energy to replace
fossil fuels (Okot, 2013). Most small-scale hydropower is designed for run-of-the-river
use to maintain natural river flows and to avoid the construction of dams (Ferreira et al.,
solar and wind energy because of the potential energy in reservoirs (Soito and Freitas,
2011). Other advantages of hydropower include its global availability, very efficient
energy conversion, low operating cost, and relatively long-life span. Furthermore, the
fuel source (water) is not affected by fluctuating markets, providing a flexible source of
water supply, irrigation systems, and flood control (Zhang et al., 2014). [24]
fuel-based power plants, as they do not produce greenhouse gas emissions during
provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Moreover, the efficiency and reliability
of hydroelectric power generation, coupled with its ability to store large amounts of
water, make it less affected by seasonal variations and weather conditions, ensuring a
consistent energy supply without relying on fossil fuels (U.S. Department of Energy). [17]
fossil fuel-powered plants since it avoids the emission of waste heat and gases that
contribute to air pollution, global warming, and acid rain. Through harnessing water's
flow ceases. Additionally, it stands out as the most dependable form of renewable energy
globally. Unlike solar or wind energy, which are subject to fluctuations, water typically
Hydroelectric generators are beneficial for the economy due to their cost-
proves to be cost-effective in the long term. Despite the initial substantial investment
renewable energy sources in the long run. Following construction, maintenance demands
are comparatively low compared to other energy sources, with ongoing enhancements
Hydroelectric energy production has a low carbon footprint and does not emit
greenhouse gasses during electricity generation. While the construction of dams may
impact the environment, the actual production of energy from hydroelectric plants is
emission-free. Furthermore, hydroelectric power plants can create lakes that offer
source that can be adjusted to meet varying energy demands. The ability to adjust the
flow of water through turbines allows for rapid changes in electricity generation, making
it a flexible and secure energy option that can quickly respond to shifts in demand or
Synthesis
advancement, and societal progress. Its significance lies in its crucial role in improving
Development Goals (SDGs). These goals emphasize the necessity of ensuring reliable,
affordable, and modern energy access to drive social and economic growth.
leisure activities, and forms the foundation for progress in healthcare and education.
driving economic activity, these systems also hold significant importance in preserving
climate change while supporting biodiversity and empowering local communities through
production, all while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. In the Philippines, where
hydropower holds a significant share of the energy mix, strategic efforts are underway to
further strengthen its role. The government's National Renewable Energy Program is
broader push towards renewable energy adoption. Recent approvals of numerous hydro
projects underscore this expansion, creating an environment conducive to both local and
foreign investment.
economies, and improves living standards. Furthermore, its capacity to stabilize energy
grids and replace costly energy sources enhances economic resilience and affordability.
cooperation.
reliance on fossil fuels and paving the way for a greener future.
addressing energy needs. Their sustainability, combined with low operational expenses
sources like hydroelectricity, continues to grow, underscoring its essential role in shaping
I. Materials
Material Quantity
8. CD 1 piece
II. Procedure
To prepare the base for the hydroelectric generator, begin by arranging the wood
planks in a stable configuration. Secure the planks together using a glue gun to ensure
stability. Next, construct the turbine housing by cutting a PVC pipe to the desired length
and securing a CD at one end using super glue to serve as the turbine blade. Attach an
Ovicart magnet to the CD securely, and use ice cream sticks to create supports for the
turbine inside the PVC pipe. Proceed to wind copper wire around the PVC pipe, leaving
sufficient wire at both ends. Connect the ends of the copper wire to bottle caps using
black tape, which will serve as the generator terminals. Assemble the structure by
attaching the turbine housing to the base using screws and bolts, and create a stand using
thick steel wire to elevate the turbine. Connect the copper wire terminals to the
switchboard and then to the transformer. Set up the DC water pump in a tub filled with
tap water and connect it to the switchboard using wires and the adapter. Test and adjust
the system by turning on the water pump and observing the turbine's rotation, making
drill gun and ensure firm attachment of the turbine, generator, and pump to the base.
Finalize connections by double-checking their security and using black tape to cover any
exposed wires. Test the generator by turning on the switchboard and observing electricity
production, checking the power output with a multimeter if available. Finally, optimize
performance by adjusting the turbine blade angle and water flow to improve power
generation efficiency.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
WEBSITES
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