Feasibility study and simulation of Mini-hydro power generation from greywater resources using computational fluid dynamics technique

The need to meet one of the United Nations sustainable development goals that centres on clean and affordable energy for all has been one of the major drivers pushing for alternative but viable means of generating electrical energy from diverse potential sources. In view of this global mandate, this study examines the feasibility of mini-hydro electrical power generation from greywater resources using computational fluid dynamics techniques. The approach proposed used SolidWorks for structural and component design, and mathematical modelling of the input and output parameters was done carefully, which was implemented through simulation in the MATLAB environment. Different scenarios were investigated through simulation, and the average flow rate at the site was obtained to be 0.0085 m³/s. The optimal power output and volumetric flow rate were obtained to be 0.1100 m3/s and 1079.1W at a fixed head of 1m, respectively. Also, with a varying water head and varying pipe diameter size, the power output generated from the setup showed an appreciable increase, ranging from thousands of watts. The outcome of the study showed that mini-power generation from the greywater is sustainable if the sited close to locations with an ample supply. Conclusively, the approach implemented is not only sustainable but also a good way to achieve energy security and water resource management in urban centres.