Turbine Technology: Converting Water to Power

Hydropower turbines come in various designs, each optimized for different water conditions. The choice of turbine depends on the available head (water pressure) and flow rate at the site. Modern turbines can achieve efficiencies over 95%, making hydropower one of the most efficient ways to generate electricity.

Impulse turbines like the Pelton wheel are best for high-head, low-flow conditions, while reaction turbines like Francis and Kaplan designs work better with lower heads and higher flows. The bulb turbine represents the latest evolution for very low-head applications, including tidal power.