The kinetic power of flowing water was once much used (along with that of the wind) to drive industrial processes like grinding, pumping, mixing and milling. In deed, waterwheels were a common sight in hilly areas of the UK in the Industrial Revolution. They largely disappeared, with the advent of steam (and later, petrol-fuelled) engines. Waterwheels have the environmental benefit, however, of not producing any 'greenhouse gas' emissions. This feature seems to have resulted in their reappearing in parts of the globe with reliable flowing water. It's basically 'free' energy. These mini forms of hydropower, now appear to be back in vogue in locations like the Himalayas and even parts of Northern Ireland. They tend now, however, to be largely used to generate electricity (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jan/17/how-climate-friendly-waterwheels-are-coming-around-again). Waterwheels seem a useful development for small-scale electricity generation in appropriate locations. It's 'green' , non-visually invasive and doesn't prevent fish migration.
No comments:
Post a Comment