Hydro-Energy Being Tested at Vanoise Mountain Hut
Innovative new method of generating electricity in the mountains
A Grenoble startup, "Save Innovations", is currently testing a hydro-generator at the refuge de Plaisance in the Vanoise National Park to provide additional electricity to solar panels.
The system works by harvesting energy from flowing water to create electricity. While other products on the market gather energy from water flowing at a rate of 3 cubic metres per second, this method is far more efficient as it only requires 0.5 cubic metres per second. Laura Picheral, an engineer at "Save Innovations", explained that the difference is in a fully integrated alternator with copper and magnets that are cast in resin and completely waterproof; the mechanical transmission has no brakes, meaning that energy can be produced from a much weaker flow of water.
They have also tested the hydro-generator at the refuge of Piacenza, where the water flows in a torrent, and the difference was remarkable. The refuge guardian, Claire Lanardi, was very impressed. "Up to now we've had the bare minimum of electricity, thanks to our solar panels; now we have no surprises and don't find ourselves having breakfast by candlelight!" This could be a solution for many mountain refuges that are reliant on the elements for their power supply.
After extensive testing in the mountains, Save Innovations plan to develop the technology for use at sea to supply navigational devices to sail boats and they are hoping to have production up and running in Grenoble by the end of 2015.
