Micro-Hydro

Step by step

How Micro-Hydro installation works

1. 1

   A specialist hydrological survey measures the head and flow rate of your watercourse to determine whether generation is viable and to size the turbine correctly.

2. 2

   You apply for an abstraction licence and environmental permit from the relevant authority (Environment Agency, SEPA, or Natural Resources Wales) — your installer or consultant can advise on this process.

3. 3

   An MCS-certified contractor designs and installs the intake, penstock, turbine house, and grid connection or battery system.

4. 4

   The system is commissioned and registered, and you receive an MCS certificate — a prerequisite for Smart Export Guarantee payments from a licensed energy supplier.

Why it's worth it

Benefits of Micro-Hydro

• Highly consistent generation — unlike solar or wind, water flows day and night, year-round
• Earn payments for surplus electricity exported via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
• 0% VAT on supply and installation
• Can fully or substantially offset a rural property's electricity demand where flow and head are sufficient
• Low running costs once installed — turbines have very few moving parts
• MCS certification required — ensures equipment and installation meet nationally recognised quality standards

What to budget

Typical cost

Is this right for you?

Ideal for

• Rural properties with a stream or river offering sufficient head (drop) and flow rate
• Landowners able to obtain an abstraction licence or environmental permit from the Environment Agency (England/Wales) or SEPA (Scotland)
• Off-grid or partially off-grid homes seeking a reliable baseload renewable source
• Those prepared for a longer planning and permitting process in exchange for high-yield, consistent output

Financial support

Grants you may qualify for