Techno-Economic Feasibility of a Micro-Hydropower System on the River Colne, Huddersfield

Hydropower in the United Kingdom (UK) remains underexplored due to its dependence on site-specific geographical and hydrological conditions. This study aims to assess the technical and economic feasibility of installing a small-scale hydropower system at an existing weir on the River Colne. Hydrological assessment was conducted using a 95% dependable flow duration curve (FDC) to estimate available flow and power output, while system performance and economic viability were evaluated using RETScreen modelling and sensitivity analysis. Results indicate a maximum capacity of 76.5 kW and annual generation of 284,384 kWh, offsetting approximately 3235 tonnes of CO₂. Economic analysis yields a net present value (NPV) of £322,769, a benefit-cost ratio of 4.5, an internal rate of return of 9.4% and a levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) of £0.132/kWh, with simple and equity payback periods of 15.3 and 17.2 years, respectively. The findings confirm technical and economic viability and provide a replicable framework for site-specific hydropower assessment in the UK.