Viability of Hydro-kinetic Turbine as an Alternative for Renewable Energy Harvesting In Nigeria

The rationale behind this research is the development of a zero-head floating system using a conventional hydrokinetic water wheel as a model to examine and determine its performance in an open channel condition for energy harvesting in Nigeria. The power is determined by flow of water in the stream which is responsible for rotating the blades. The research entails the water flow driven by a pump at 0.4[m/s] and 0.6[m/s] water velocities around a pool. The turbine is made to float under this free stream velocity. Feasibility study of its viability in Gari dam in Kano state of Nigeria was carried out and an average flow and discharge were determined during the dry season. Findings of this research were quite impressive and can be used to design a suitable floating zero-head turbine for energy harvesting in Nigerian rural areas where the head is low and energy is required not only for mechanization but also for lighting and irrigation purpose.