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In Lesotho and many other places in Africa, grid electricity is often not available to a large portion of the citizens who live in more remote areas. By taking advantage of the water that is flowing in the large rivers using basic turbine technology, electricity could be created at a low cost and distributed to villages near the river. Technical Description The objective of this design challenge would be to develop a working generating "island" made of as many locally available materials as possible as cheaply as possible that would provide a constant supply of electricity to a community. A raft with large turbine blades would be anchored in the river, allowing it to float with the water level. Sedimentation prevention and trash rack creation are two main issues that need to be tackled by the design team. There is also a possibility of using solar panels as an alternative way to power these generating islands. Community Bethel Business and Community Development Center (BBCDC) - Local campus that wants to use generating rafts as a way to teach students about micro hydro. Appropriate Technology Services (ATS) - Wants to work on cheaper ways to provide rural electrification. Project Status This project is still in the conceptual stage. There was some work done on the design of the power station by VITA volunteers in the early 1990s. Head and flow measurements have also been taken along parts of the Senqu. Contact(s): Matt Zedler
<mzedler@MIT.edu> (804.814.7197) |
