Small Hydroelectric Engineering Practice

We are a group of individual investors who are trying to tap into the small hydro space. At the moment we are working on two small hydro schemes. None of us are engineers by trade, so our strategy has been to lean heavily on a reputable consultant with experience and know-how. (...) Now that the consultant is entering into the tender drawings phase, We are trying to raise many of the design considerations highlighted in this book to them. As we debate each item, I cannot help but feel extremely relieved to have bought and read this book. At the very least, even though we are led by our consultant on the designs, we are not completely blind and have working knowledge to influence the designs. This book has been invaluable to our business. The contents in the book are having a real life impact here in our projects. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is about to enter into the small hydro space. Alan Jenviphakul The book takes you from start to finish through the evolution of a hydro scheme. From initial site assessment, hydrology, environmental, banking and finance through the many layers of detailed design work to detailed analysis of the many types and configurations of turbine plant and generators available. Small Hydroelectric Engineering Practice is a thoroughly readable and enjoyable book for anyone interested in small hydro. It is an essential book for anyone working with small hydro whether a first time developer or an experienced hydro engineer. Dave MacKay, Inchbonnie Hydro, New Zealand A book, based on tradition, full of experience and presenting recent developments. Supported by many pictures, sketches and tables it is very comfortable to read and to learn in one run. Several pages dedicated to learning from failures and operational recommendations should be highlighted. A must in the library of a hydropower engineer! Prof. Dr Bernhard Pelikan, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria; Vice President of the European Small Hydropower Association This is a unique and comprehensive collection of practical engineering advice that should be essential reading for anyone involved in the development of a small to medium sized hydro-electricity resource. It covers all engineering disciplines and is based on a lifetime of involvement in this industry by the author. He should be commended for sharing both ingenious design solutions and the sometimes painful lessons learned, with others who might be fortunate enough to also be involved in harnessing these often overlooked renewable energy resources. Ir. W.L. Mandeno, FIPENZ, CPEng, Int.PE. Wellington, NZ By systematically explaining the different scheme components, Mr Leyland's book caters to a range of readers and keeps the book highly readable. He explained logically about the important decisions required when developing a scheme and suggests how to avoid repeating past mistakes. This lays the foundation for the subsequent detailed discussions including job specifications, contracts for procurement and installation. The book also includes a CD of eight spreadsheets to assist consultants, engineers, owners and development of small hydro electricity schemes. It reads well using clear, conversational language to explain a complex subject without a lot of jargon. As a fellow hydropower enthusiast, I believe this book is an excellent reference. Robert Shelton, MIPENZ