UK's Hydroelectricity Installers

Written-by

Richard Burdett

Reviewed-by

Richard Burdett

Updated on

Aug 06, 2023

UK's Hydroelectricity Installers

When choosing an installer for your new hydroelectric system you will need to undertake a great deal of thought and preparation. There are a number of companies who take you through the whole planning, design and installation phase and choosing the right one is a good part of the battle if your project is going to be a success.

How to find the right Installer for your Hydroelectric Project

Unlike technologies like solar, there are a lot more issues to think about when it comes to any hydroelectric installation, most notably whether your site is suitable.

• You need to do your research and be sure that you know what you are talking about. Our advice at the Renewable Hub is that if you have a relatively good understanding of the components of a hydroelectric system and the way that everything fits together, you are more likely to make the right choice when it comes to finding an installer.
• Whether it’s a domestic, commercial or community hydroelectric installation you need to be sure that your site is suitable. There are a number of factors that will be involved in choosing an appropriate place, including the water speed and the height of the area. Find out more here.
• What type of hydroelectric system are you going to install? There are a range of different types of turbine and arrays that may or may not be the right one for you.
• Have you got the budget for your installation? It’s not just the cost of the equipment that matters when it comes to installing a hydroelectric system, you need to have the finances to cover the survey, planning permissions and the actual construction.

Searching for your Hydroelectric Installer

The great news is that we have a database online that means you can start searching for an installer in your area right now. If you have done all the preparatory work and have a good idea what you want your system to look like, you can visit the database here.

What to look for in a Hydroelectric Installer

As with any industry, you want to be sure that you are getting the best for your budget, and that means employing someone who knows what they are doing. If you are looking for a specialist company to take you through the whole process from design to implementation there are some questions you will need answering:

• Have they got a good track record? Are there are other installations you can take a look at that they have been involved in?
• How long have they been in business? Do they favour one particular system/model over another or do they produce a bespoke approach where they design the system for you?
• Do they have cover such as liability insurance? What are their warranties? Are they members of a specific trade association?
• Are they being realistic in their cost projections and the return on investment you will eventually receive? Do they offer a maintenance regime to make sure your new hydroelectric project works at full efficiency?
   

Again, if you have done your research then you will know what you are talking about and will be able to spot if a particular installer is the right person for you. The main trade association for the hydroelectric industry in the British Hydropower Association and most reputable companies should be a member of it.

Community and Commercial Hydroelectric Installations

Larger projects are always going to involve more people and the likelihood is that such an undertaking will involve putting out to tender to local and national companies. Councils and interested parties will be involved and there will be a fair few meetings before everything is settled. Find out more about community hydroelectricity here.

Avoiding Rogue Salesmen

If you are looking for a smaller installation such as micro hydro then you are more likely to fall prey to that section of rogue salesmen who are more interested in their commission than giving you the right service. There are a couple of things that should start alarm bells ringing:

• First of all, if the salesmen lacks the right knowledge and is unwilling to answer your questions to your satisfaction (which is why we always say to do your research thoroughly).
• Secondly, if they start making limited time offers if you sign on the dotted line there and then.
• And finally, if they overstay their welcome and try to pressure you into taking up a contract.
   

A reputable installer will undertake a full assessment of your site and ensure that it meets all the requirements and is suitable. You can search our database for installers in your area and take a look at their individual ratings as well as the services they offer.