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8. Conclusion
The various sections of this article have shown the technological peculiarities of PCHs, as well as their mode of operation, which sets them apart from large-scale plants. Hydropeaking or run-of-river hydropower is also a specific feature of these plants. The electromechanical converters and associated turbines remain sufficiently efficient with reasonably varying heads or flows to avoid the need for complex static variable-speed energy conversion devices. They have been designed for reliability and achieve very high efficiencies (>95%).
Finally, thanks to similarity relationships, PCHs benefit from the advances made in the design of large hydraulic machines, as well as current control and command resources: PLCs and programmable relays that facilitate their operation and optimize their energy efficiency.
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Conclusion
Bibliography
References
Economic data
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Current situation
In 2000, some 1,700 independent private producers generated 7 TWh, i.e. 1.5% of French electricity production or 2% of national consumption, and 10% of French hydropower production. For the record, French consumption in 2000 was 424 TWh. EDF operates 550 sites with capacities ranging from 100 kW to 1,800 MW. Table
Installation and connection regulations
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Authorizations and decrees
In France, there are two procedures, depending on the size of the work required to develop a site on a watercourse:
authorization request for minor sites ;
concession applications for major sites.
Numerous...
Standardization
- Postes de livraison établis à l'intérieur d'un bâtiment et alimentés par un réseau de distribution publique HTA (jusqu'à 33 kV) - NF C 13-100 - avr. 2001
- Installations de branchement à basse tension - NF C 14-100 - janv. 1998
Organizations
Agence de l'environnement et de la maîtrise de l'énergie (Ademe) http://www.ademe.fr
Groupement des producteurs autonomes d'énergie hydroélectrique (GPAE) http://www.gpae.com.fr
Manufacturers (non-exhaustive list)
ESAC Énergie (Voight Siemens Hydro) http://www.eurocooIer.com/turbine.htm
Alstom Power http://www.power.alstom.com
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