Small Scale Hydropower Technologies Impact on Australian Native Fish

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This Small Scale Hydropower Technologies Impact on Australian Native Fish project produced detailed scientific information on the effects small hydro has on native fish species, which could be used to improve the design and operation of small hydro systems. Large scale hydropower projects already produce the majority of Australia’s renewable energy, but much of the potential expansion of hydropower production lies in the application of small hydropower technologies .Nationally, there are thousands of irrigation structures and weirs that could be retrofitted to enable small hydropower production for clean electricity production. Globally, small hydropower is growing at a significant rate, with the largest untapped market being on Australia’s doorstep in Asia.It is important that any small hydro development is progressed with minimal impact on fish and other aquatic fauna. It is understood that some species of fish are susceptible to injury and mortality during downstream migration, but presently there is no information available to help in the sustainable design of small hydro facilities in Australia.

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