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.
(Tap / click images to enlarge)