The use of precipitation power would necessitate that energy be captured from the cm/year ( in/yr) of rainwater that is projected to fall (on average) on an HC. The rainwater would be channeled into gutters, restrained temporarily until an adequate amount is collected and then would continue to flow downward. Near the very end of this downward flow, the waters would pass through and turn the turbine of a small hydroelectric generator, thus produce electricity. To add and to provide water head height to buildings and street level gutters, respectively, the hydroelectric turbine would be located below the HC surface by about m ( ft) (Due to the HC's constant m ( ft) seawater level clearance). (Some rooftops may have an additional meters or so ( ft) of height due to rooftop greenhouse structures). The water would then flow into the water tank portions of the HC’s floating units where it would be later treated for use as freshwater. The total energy that would result from this system is about MWh/year.
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May 28, 2008