Alternative Energy Question

All,

Anyone ever look into the massive amount of power in moving water from storm runoff? I am wondering if it would be possible to put generators in storm sewers. I realize there is an issue with debris and there is probably a way around that issue, but every major metro has storm drains. I am just remembering the power of the water blowing off manhole covers after a quick 4" downpour we had last summer...

It seems to me we are just passing on a power source like when industries bleed natural gas. I realize it is not alot, but the most costly part of the mechanism is already in place.

Thoughts? Comments? Ideas? Please send non-constructive criticism to 1600 PA Ave.

Later,
JM

http://www.nrel.gov

Every little bit helps ~

That sounds so simple that.....well….no one would ever use it. Sounds like an interesting thesis topic for a civil engineer. I would think it would have some application in LA or other major cities with large numbers of storm water diversion channels.

Chicago would also be a good candidate. Most of its storm water is diverted into underground tunnels. Surely they could rig a propeller/impeller as a means of power generation.