Cotswold Canals in Pictures

Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme

The Hydro Scheme turbine chamber is situated alongside Dudbridge Lower Lock. The chamber contains a turbine, generator and the associated control equipment. Water enters the turbine chamber through a 900mm 'Penstock' pipe which is connected to the turbine.

The discharge from the turbine goes through the floor of the chamber and into the 1800mm Dudbridge Locks bypass channel pipe. This in turn discharges back into the canal under Dudbridge road bridge. Water is fed into the penstock pipe through an inlet just above Dudbridge Upper Lock.

The flow of water into the inlet is controlled from the turbine chamber to regulate the speed the turbine. The inlet also comprises a 'trash' screen which prevent debris and fish passing through to the turbine.

The brick 'stack' next to the turbine chamber is the meter cupboard, where the amount of energy supplied to the Utilities Company is recorded. The hydro scheme can generate up to 22 KW (depending on flow rate). The income from the sale of electricity will support the maintenance of the canal.

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Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme
Dudbridge Hydro scheme turbine chamber, with Dudbridge Lower Lock to the right
Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme
Dudbridge Hydro Scheme LED output display
Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme
Hydro scheme inlet channel above Dudbridge Upper Lock
Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme
Hydro scheme 'trash' screens, with bypass channel behind

During Construction

Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme
Hydro Scheme chamber beside Dudbridge Lower Lock
Dudbridge Locks Hydro-Electric Scheme
Penstock pipe (upper) & larger bypass channel pipe during construction