Ecology / CALCULATOR

Hydroelectric Output from Head and Flow

Hydroelectric Output from Head and Flow: explicit inputs, a worked example and clearly stated assumptions.

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01

Your inputs

Adjust the values to explore a different result.

m³/s
Enter water flow in m³/s.
m
Enter net head in m.
%
Enter overall efficiency in %.

Formula

power=ρgQHη with ρ=1000 kg/m³ and g=9.80665 m/s².
  • Use the units shown beside each field.
  • Results update automatically whenever you change an input.
  • Displayed values use up to four decimal places, or scientific notation for very small or large numbers. Calculations use standard floating-point arithmetic; exact integer and fraction tools identify their own precision rules.
  • Use net head after conveyance losses and overall turbine-generator efficiency. Seasonal flows and environmental constraints are not modeled.

Example Calculation

Example inputs
  • Water flow: 0.1 m³/s
  • Net head: 10 m
  • Overall efficiency: 80 %

0.1 m³/s through 10 m net head at 80% overall efficiency gives about 7.845 kW.

Method references

Frequently asked questions

How do I use this calculator?

Enter water flow, net head, overall efficiency. The result updates automatically. Use Reset to restore the example values.

What method does it use?

power=ρgQHη with ρ=1000 kg/m³ and g=9.80665 m/s².. Use net head after conveyance losses and overall turbine-generator efficiency. Seasonal flows and environmental constraints are not modeled.

Why might a rounded result differ?

The calculation keeps full numeric precision internally, then rounds the displayed result. Rounding intermediate steps by hand can produce a slightly different answer.

Are my inputs saved online?

No. This calculator processes your inputs in your browser. A recently used list stores only calculator names on this device, not your entered values.

Check the assumptions and units before using this result. Read about calculation methods.