M3H

Heidra was incorporated to develop Micro High-Head Hydro electric sites (M3H). Micro hydro sites are defined as ones where the installed hydro capacity is less than 1 MW. The 'High-Head' of M3H refers to where the stream or river falls through a height of 20 meters or more. M3H systems minise the environmental impact on a site by being able to operate with virtually no reservoir storage. In terms of power, M3H covers sizes for 2 to 500 kW.

To achieve its aims Heidra has developed an advanced site assessment tool kit to characterise a catchment's response to rainfall events. The results are used to calibrate the most widely used predictive software for river flow: Low Flows, developed by Wallingford Hydro Solutions and recommended by the Environment Agency.

Optiflow T17 Turbine

In order for many M3H sites to become financially viable Heidra has developed the Heidra Optiflow turbine. The hydro electric turbine is similar in geometry to large-scale turgo turbines, but is designed for high efficiency in the 2 to 40 kW range. Using a modular design approach and lean processes Heidra has ensured low cost without sacrificing quality or efficiency. Each hydro turbine is individually manufactured for a specific site to achieve maximum energy and financial yield.

Planning

Heidra is able to offer assistance at all stages of the planning process, from temporary weir licencing through abstraction to full Environmental Reports and Impact Assessments. By maintaining a close network of partners and developing many of the necessary skills in-house, Heidra is able to offer quality hydro electric services at highly competetive rates.

Design

After performing a hydro resource assessment, good preliminary and detailed designs are vital for long term performance and minimising the Environmental impact. Heidra is able to assist at all stages of the hydro electric design process through to procurement and installation.