Last Updated:
In this model, small forms of dam, reservoir, pipe, turbine and generator are shown. According to the model, water stored at altitude contains potential energy. As this water falls down through the pipe, its kinetic energy increases and it starts rotating the turbine blades.
Sitamarhi: Divyanshu Kumar, a student of Sitamarhi SIT College in the field of science and innovation, has prepared a hydroelectricity working model. This model not only explains the process of energy production to the students, but can also become a source of inspiration for the government and policy makers in future. It shows the entire process of producing electricity from water power in a simple and practical form. The special thing is that this model has been prepared at low cost and is completely suitable for school-college exhibitions.
In this model prepared by Divyanshu, small forms of dam, reservoir, pipe, turbine and generator are shown. According to the model, water stored at altitude contains potential energy. As this water falls down through the pipe, its kinetic energy increases and it starts rotating the turbine blades. The DC motor connected to the turbine acts like a generator, generating electricity and lighting the LED light. A small water pump returns the water to the tank, allowing this process to continue.
The biggest feature of this project is its low cost. This model is made from simple materials like cardboard or thermocol base, plastic bottle, pipe, DC motor, LED and small water pump. Its total estimated cost comes only between Rs 250 to 400. Experts believe that with such models, students develop understanding of energy conversion, renewable energy and environmental protection at an early stage.
Divyanshu says that if this concept is adopted on a large scale, its benefits can be even wider. Large hydroelectric projects not only enable the generation of large amounts of electricity, but also provide many additional benefits such as flood control, irrigation and drinking water storage. At present the average cost of hydropower projects in India is said to be Rs 7 to 20 crore per MW. That means a 100 MW plant can be built for Rs 700 to Rs 2000 crore, whereas the cost of a big project like 500 MW can reach thousands of crores of rupees.
According to experts, the lifespan of a hydro power plant ranges from 50 to 100 years and its maintenance cost is also relatively low. It is completely pollution free and reliable energy source compared to coal or diesel based plants. This model of Divyanshu Kumar proves that if the youth get the right direction and platform, then even small efforts can lay the foundation of big change. This is the reason why his project can prove useful for the government and the energy sector in the future.
