Recent developments of an electronic load governor for micro hydroelectric generation

Micro hydroelectric sets are defined as those with unit ratings of less than 100 kW. They are often situated in remote communities, particularly in developing countries. A key item of the plant is the governor. Traditionally, speed governors such as the mechanical-hydraulic type have been installed. The author describes how the accepted alternative to the speed governor is the electronic load governor which maintains the speed of the set by adjusting an electrical ballast load connected to the generator terminals, maintaining a balance between the total electrical load torque and the hydraulic input torque for the turbine.<>