Energy Conversion System – Small Hydropower Plants

Dear Colleagues,

Hydropower is an important part of global energy production (estimated in 2018 to be approximately 16% of the world’s electricity production and accounting for some 60% of renewable electricity production) and has seen strong growth in recent years. Despite the large capacity already installed, there is still great potential for further development. It is estimated that only 10% of the total viable hydropower potential has been used. The increasing problem with grid stability affected by the fluctuating power from RESs strengthens hydropower’s position among reliable energy sources. Today, small hydropower plants (SHPs) are attractive sources due to the low administrative and executive costs, short construction time, and small environmental impact. Furthermore, in the form of decentralized energy sources located close to their customers, SHPs improve grid stability by diversifying the electricity system and reducing transmission losses.

The aim of this Special Issue is to encourage scientists to publish their experimental and theoretical research on topics related to energy conversion systems dedicated to small hydropower plants. The focuses of this Special Issue include, without being limited to, the following themes:

• New solutions of energy conversion systems;
• Power generation efficiency;
• Microgrids to serve the local loads;
• Hybrid hydro power systems;
• Pomp-as-turbine solutions;
• Variable speed operation in hydropower.

It is our pleasure to invite you to submit your original work to this Special Issue. We look forward to receiving your outstanding research.

Prof. Dr. Tomasz Wegiel
Prof. Dr. Dariusz Borkowski
Guest Editors

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