"Watt-a-wheel: Initiating Hydroelectricity from Irrigation Using

Water-Powered Turbines"

A Project Proposal

Presented to

ASKI Skills and Knowledge Institute Inc.

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Subject

Research in Daily Life II

First Semester S.Y. 2024-2025

Gulapa, Wency V.

Ignacio, James Zander C.

Magno, Rainier Johnazarene L.

Trogue, Rein Heaven M.

Velasquez, Dave Emmanuel S.

Caisip, Jona Mae G.

Ferrer, Freya Anniel V.

 January 2025

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION

This chapter of the paper presents the problem and its

setting. It includes the background of the study, the statement
of the problem, the statement of the hypothesis significance of
the study, and scope and delimitation of the study.

Background of the Study

As demand for sustainable energy solutions grows, the need

to integrate renewable energy technologies into existing
infrastructure is increasingly becoming a priority. Irrigation
systems are crucial for agriculture and can be taken as unique
opportunities to extract kinetic energy from flowing water in
order to generate electricity. These are mostly found in rural
areas and can serve as an excellent location for small
hydroelectric generators that offer energy and water management
solutions.

Electricity is an important resource but increasing prices

and reliance on fossil fuels present big problems for rural
communities. According to Chel and Kaushik (2020), growing energy
prices, as well as the environmental consequences of conventional
energy production, call for renewable sources of energy that are
cheaper. Mini hydroelectric generators that are fitted to
irrigation systems can meet this need since the flow of water can
be constant in the supply of clean renewable energy.

The "Watt-A-Wheel" concept addresses these issues. This

approach utilizes the flow of water in irrigation canals to
generate clean electricity while simultaneously ensuring
efficient water distribution for agricultural purposes. By doing
so, it offers a smarter, environmentally friendly solution to
energy challenges in rural areas and aids in the development of
more sustainable farming communities by reducing energy
consumption and reliance on fossil fuels.
 Irrigation systems are designed to deliver water
efficiently, but they often allow the kinetic energy of flowing
water to dissipate unused. This energy can be converted into
electricity by installing mini hydroelectric generators, reducing
reliance on fossil fuels and lowering energy costs for farmers
and nearby communities. Chu and Majumdar (2018) say that small-
scale hydroelectric systems are very sustainable. Their
production of green-house gases is minimal, and supply is
constant. Once hydroelectric technology is incorporated into
irrigation systems, it maximizes the use of resources while
maintaining functionality through the water distribution network.

The dual functionality will benefit the generation of energy

as well as the use of water. Mini hydroelectric generators may be
installed to power irrigation equipment, water pumps, and even
homes for nearby clients who reside off the grid. Moreover, the
small-scale and low-cost methods are environmentally friendly and
easy to adopt in rural development.

This research seeks to explore the possibility of utilizing

mini hydroelectric generators in irrigation systems for
exploiting the energy contained in flowing water. This must be a
system which can generate renewable energy and ensure continuous
supply of water for irrigation. Based on the continuous flow in
the irrigation canals, the study will develop a sustainable
system that cares for energy needs as it takes care of the
agriculture sector.

Given the essential role of electricity in daily life, this

study has the potential to benefit individuals, businesses, and
communities. Generating electricity from irrigation canals,
though a relatively new concept, has the potential to become
mainstream in the future, especially as global energy consumption
rises and the demand for eco-friendly energy solutions grows
(Lam, 2022).
Theoretical Framework

Hydropower technologies were first used to power a single

lamp in Cragside country in 1878, therefore these machines were
invented through the principle of water wheel a long time ago.
Originally, grain mills and other machines were powered by water
wheels, this ancient device was first originated in Southern
Europe and China by Vitruvius in 4000 BCE he uses flowing water
to provide a sustainable energy to power sawmills, pumps and
other farm machines. Modern hydroelectric systems were developed
over time as a result of advances in technology, using the force
of falling or flowing water to produce electricity (Johnson,
2017). Focusing on the potential energy stored in water
reservoirs, huge hydroelectric dams developed as major sources of
renewable energy in the 20th century (International Energy
Agency, 2021). The utilization of hydroelectric principles in
smaller, non-traditional water sources, including drainage
canals, has garnered interest as a sustainable energy alternative
in recent times (Smith et al, 2018).

The development of alternative sources of energy means first

of all the integration of modern technologies together with
traditional principles and ideas of waterwheels. Using the idea
of those very historical water wheels which were used for various
purposes like milling, the researchers create innovative
structures and further develop the combination of traditional
ideas with the latest developments, modifying the mechanics to
suit the energy demands today. That includes the addition of a
new function for separating waste, so the quality of water can be
ensured. The last one refers to the management of waste and
production of renewable energy in a sense that it modifies
conventional methodologies while bringing these into harmony with
current environmental objectives.

These discoveries led researchers to conduct a more

innovative study with the involvement of the water wheel,
resulting in sustainable energy production without releasing any
greenhouse gases. This helps researchers develop a highly
functional device that focuses on irrigation systems. The device
has a garbage separator to ensure that there will be no obstacles
passing through the panel. In this way, researchers can ensure
the quality of the water. The "Watt-A-Wheel" is a modern yet
traditional way of providing energy by using the principle of the
water wheel and improving it for more sustainable energy
production.

Conceptual Framework

Figure 1: Research Paradigm of the Study

This system takes advantage of flowing irrigation water by

using a water-powered turbine to generate DC electricity. It
works by turning the natural water flow into power, something
that would otherwise be wasted. As the water moves through the
canal, the wheel spins, creating electricity. The system also
keeps track of how much energy is produced and stored, making it
easy to see the results. It’s a simple, eco-friendly way to get
electricity from an existing water source, without relying on
traditional power grids.
 The system focuses on key things such as how long the water
flows, the pressure, and the rate at which water moves, because
these play a big role in how efficiently energy is produced. To
make it work even better, an automated waste storage feature has
been added. This keeps debris from clogging the water flow or
damaging the water wheel. By automatically removing waste, the
system ensures that the water keeps flowing smoothly, which helps
the turbine work more efficiently. Altogether, these elements
create an affordable and eco-friendly way to generate electricity
from irrigation canal water, making good use of an existing
resource while tackling waste issues at the same time.

The framework looks at how much electricity the device can

produce in a given time and how well it works with different
electrical devices. It also checks the maximum amount of
electricity it can hold, measured in volts, and how long it can
be used in one go. Another key part is figuring out how well the
device stores power in its battery and whether it can provide a
steady supply of electricity. These details help evaluate how
efficient the device is and how well it can turn irrigation canal
water into a reliable source of renewable energy.

Statement of the problem

The goal of the study is to determine whether hydropower

electricity can be generated from the irrigation water, and
whether this method can be a practical alternative to electricity
generation method. Also, this study will examine how the
integrated automated waste storage within the device can affect
the overall energy produced by the device. Additionally, the
project seeks to determine if the irrigation water water is
enough to produce a substantial amount of usable electricity.

Specifically, the researchers seek to answer the following

questions:

1. How can the irrigation water be measured in terms of:

a. Time (in minutes)

b. Rate of flowing water (in cubic meters per second)?

2. How much electricity in volts can Watt-A-Wheel produce, and

what are its limitations?

3. Is there any significant difference between the time and rate

of flowing water in terms of electricity produced?

Statement of the Hypothesis

There is no significant difference between the time and rate

of flowing water in terms of electricity produced.

Significance of the study

The Irrigation water-powered turbines can be beneficial for

the following;

National Irrigation Administrator

According to the National Irrigation Administrator, the use of
irrigation water for electricity production boosts water
utilization efficiency and reduces waste, making irrigation
water-powered turbines a significant advancement in resource
management. Because less extraneous energy sources are used, this
supports sustainable agriculture and may result in cheaper
irrigation costs. This has an impact on creative policies and
initiatives that incorporate renewable energy sources into
irrigation systems.

Community
Better community infrastructure will be produced by irrigation
water-powered turbines, which may also create jobs in turbine
maintenance and operation. Because there is less reliance on
fossil fuels and greenhouse gases, this improves local economies
and helps mitigate environmental effects even more. Also, these
projects themselves provide workable examples of sustainability
and renewable energy, which promotes awareness of green
technology and a sense of community involvement.

Business
This turbine has a great potential for right away energy cost
reduction powered by irrigation water directly affecting the
operations of their concern, especially for businesses in the
agriculture sector or whose operations are in some way connected
to the agricultural supply chain. In this way, purchasing or
sponsoring such turbines could provide businesses a competitive
edge in terms of their corporate social responsibility and
sustainability profile, and clients who are concerned about
environmentally friendly practices might become more likely to
become customers. It means businesses who adopt modern
technologies are also leading the way in sustainability, making
technology a significant competitive advantage.

Homeowners
Indirect benefits for householders could include possible energy
savings due to overall community energy expenditure reductions.
Properties within areas that invest in such advanced eco-friendly
infrastructure may also enjoy increased property value. The use
of cleaner energy sources contributes to better air quality and a
healthier living environment, thus benefiting households
directly.

Future Researchers
Turbines powered by irrigation water introduce new frontiers for
research into renewable energy and sustainability. They can act
as a source of authentic data and provide real-life examples that
could stimulate innovation in turbine technology and efficiency.
The nature of this research promotes interdisciplinary
collaboration, hence stimulating innovation and further
improvement into more efficient methods.

Researchers
The current researchers may investigate technological improvement
and efficiency of the turbines powered by irrigation water, while
indicating the way of improvement in renewable energy solutions.
They can also evaluate the environmental gain or loss due to
integration of such technologies within the existing
infrastructure. Those findings might give some insight into
policy decisions and investment related to wider dissemination of
sustainable technologies within irrigation and drainage systems.
Scope and Delimitation

This research aims to investigate the application of

hydroelectric principles in irrigation, focusing on how the
kinetic energy of flowing water can be converted into electrical
energy during rainy days. The study delves into the design and
implementation of turbine systems that are suitable for this
context, evaluating their effectiveness and feasibility. The
researchers will also include the evaluation of integrating an
automated waste storage within the turbine systems to manage
debris and improve overall efficiency. In addition, it will
assess the overall potential benefits and challenges associated
with integrating hydroelectric generation on the existing
waterways system. The researchers will limit the devices
application in the specific research location only.
 Definition of Terms

Watt-A-Wheel - the device was named Watt-A-Wheel, which means

EWAN KO. The researchers created the term to engage people, and
show what the device is all about.

Hydroelectricity - a type of energy produced by applying the

power of flowing water, this are typically achieved through dams
and water turbines.

Rate of Flowing Water - the speed or volume of water passing

through the turbine.

Electricity - it is the researchers aim to initiate electricity

from mechanical energy through hydroelectric principle, and in
this study, it is the most necessary.

Irrigation - the process of supplying water to land or crops to

help them grow, especially in areas where natural rainfall is
insufficient. It involves methods like channels, pipes,
sprinklers, or other systems to deliver water efficiently to
plants, ensuring agricultural productivity and maintaining soil
health.

Mechanical energy - the sum of potential energy and kinetic

energy in an object or system. It represents the energy together
with the motion and position of an object. Mechanical energy can
be converted from one form to another.

Water-powered turbines - a device used to convert mechanical

energy of the flowing water to electrical energy.
 CHAPTER II: THE REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents the related studies relevant to the

research topic. The review of the literature for this study
focuses on the electricity generated by the irrigation water by
integrating the hydroelectric principle and implementing water-
powered turbines to convert mechanical into electrical energy.

WATER WHEEL

Koondhar et al. (2024) stated that the waterwheel operates

without causing pollution and utilizes renewable energy from
flowing water. It does not require the construction of dams or
impoundments, minimizing the potential negative impacts on
ecosystems and aquatic habitats. This makes waterwheel power
generators a sustainable and green energy solution. Unlike
traditional methods that require building dams—which can be
harmful to ecosystems and aquatic animals.The floating waterwheel
power generators described in this study offer a high level of
efficiency. The design incorporates aerodynamically designed
floats and utilizes the force of flowing water to drive the
waterwheel, even at lower flow rates. The system includes a
linear power generator and can harness energy from flowing water
with relatively low maintenance requirements.

Waterwheel-powered generators produce energy without causing

pollution. Waterwheels minimize negative impacts on the
environment, making them a more sustainable energy option. The
design of the floating waterwheel is efficient, as it features
aerodynamically designed floats that allow it to work even in low
water flows. Overall, this makes floating waterwheel power
generators an effective and eco-friendly way to generate
electricity.

HYDROELECTRIC
 According to Sudibyo et al. (2024), the use of hydroelectric
era in Indonesia to guide plantation and agricultural regions in
Indonesia remains limited. The improvement of hydroelectric era
can guide improvement in agricultural and plantation regions.
Irrigation canals and rivers in plantation regions may be used to
generate power with low head hydroelectric strength plants.

This observation identifies hydroelectric strength

technology era, in particular low head mills which can be growing
in Indonesia and overseas to be used in plantation or
agricultural regions. From various studies conducted, a low head
picohydro turbine advanced in Indonesia has numerous advantages,
specifically for the picohydro kind it could produce
approximately 500 Watts of strength, the generator is hooked up
at once to the turbine.

The improvement of the turbine era to make use of irrigation

canals or rivers in plantation regions can guide the supply of
electricity, this electricity can assist system agricultural
merchandise quicker and less expensive in an effort to create an
inexperienced electricity atmosphere this is useful for survival.

FLOATING WATER WHEEL

“Eco-Friendly Energy From Flowing Water” investigates the

capability of floating waterwheel systems in providing
sustainable energy generated solely from rivers and streams.
These systems can potentially address environmental concerns and
serve as an alternative for cleaner and better energy sources.
Khatri et al. (2024) stated that floating hydro systems can
contribute up to 10% of the global renewable energy. Unlike
traditional dams, these systems have less impact on the
environment, opening many opportunities in the world of
sustainable energy production.

Unlike traditional hydroelectric dams that disrupt local

ecosystems and require extensive manufacturing, floating
waterwheel systems utilize minimal intervention, especially in
the surrounding environment. Moreover, Khatri et al. (2024)
emphasize their ability to apply the same principles as
traditional dams without large-scale interventions, making them a
more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to energy
production

WATER SOURCE

The Colorado River Basin (CRB), which covers six states and
contains a total area of over 246,000 square miles, is an
essential resource that needs to be managed quickly, based on
recent studies. For billions, the area is vital for
manufacturing, farming, and drinking water supplies. Well known
dams such as the Hoover and Glen Canyon showcase the pressure on
this valuable water resource due to increased population demand
and interbasin transfer, even if they produce hydroelectric
energy which is in high demand (Smith et al., 2023).

According to Johnson (2024), innovative ideas such as Watt-

A-Wheel are emerging as alternatives to large hydroelectric dams,
particularly in regions where environmental concerns prevent new
dam construction. This concept leverages renewable energy from
urban drainage water, presenting a sustainable solution to the
challenges faced by conventional hydroelectric systems.Watt-A-
Wheel emphasizes the need for conscientious, eco-friendly
approaches to fulfill energy requirements, alleviating ecological
stress. This campaign challenges your commitment to the earth and
inspires you to support the transition to green, renewable energy
that can seamlessly integrate into urban environments.The ability
to account for water use is fundamental for water management and
is of particular importance in highly stressed regions such as
the Colorado River Basin (CRB).According to (Smith et al., 2023),
total water withdrawals averaged 17 million acre-feet, peaking at
17.76 million acre-feet in 2000, with 78% of water use being
surface water, and groundwater use decreasing by 12%. Interbasin
transfers, primarily for public supply and irrigation, ranged
from 5.40 million acre-feet to 9.43 million acre-feet annually
outside the area of the Colorado River Basin (CRB). As the
population increased from 4.56 million to 9.44 million, public
supply withdrawals for domestic water use more than doubled to
approximately 1.63 million acre-feet (a form of measurement
referring to one acre of an area to a depth of one foot) and
domestic water use has increased by more than 90%. At the same
time, about 85% of withdrawals were in support of irrigation,
emphasizing the case for sustainable management of water
resources when irrigation demand is increasing (Smith et al.,
2023).

HYDROPOWER AS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOURCE

According to Hussein et al. (2023), there are more clean

sources of energy, whereby the different types involve multiple
sources, but the fundamental principles by way of generation and
pollution remain the same. Energy production through the system
of hydropower also has a dynamic impact since it uses water to
create or produce energy. It can also overcome this problem of
accidents in highways and rural areas by implementing a smart
system that was used for energy production with severe rainfall
and flood. This study investigates the potential of using water
flow in drainage systems to generate hydroelectric power,
developing sustainable, localized energy solutions using readily
available water resources. It focuses on demonstrating how
controlled hydropower system can be utilized for the purposes of
generating energy from drainage water which is similar to the
study being conducted "Watt-a-wheel: where waste water creates
endless power".

Controlled hydropower system tested with a storage unit,

Francis turbine, DC generator, sensors, and controller,
collecting rainwater from drainage sinks. Sensor data on water
flow and turbine rotation were fed to a microcontroller for
system control and data analysis to assess power output
efficiency. The controlled hydro power system in highway
drainage systems, presents its potential ability to provide a
sustainable and reliable source of energy in rural areas
especially in flooded prone areas. During the course of the
flood, this study discovered that this system is very useful for
generating electricity, storing power, and offering other
necessities, which improves safety in these areas.

HYDEL

Energy is one of the most important needs of every household

in any country. However, most energy comes from fossil fuel,
which is dangerous to the planet. Since Pakistan has one of the
largest irrigation systems, it has great potential for micro
hydropower plants. This study proposed HYDEL power since it is
considered cheap, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Also,
there are many untapped streams, canals, and drains that can be
studied for hydel potential (Ali et al., 2020). “Hydel power
generation” is similar to the research being conducted, “Watt a
Wheel.”

Designing Hydel power generation focuses on calculating HHP

in the Left Bank Outfall Drain (LBOD) system near Goth Ahori,
Jhuddo, and Sindh; if implemented, it can provide decentralized
electricity to Goth Ahori and nearby villages without using the
grid. Designing Hydel power generation uses different materials
and methods: first is site selection, where Left Bank Outfall
Drain was chosen for hydropower potential drains. Field surveys
measured flow velocity using the FP-111 GlobalWater® Flow Probe,
depth with plumbob dipping tape, and canal width with a measuring
tape. Different parameters must be considered for the
installation of hydroelectric power plants. The flow rate of
water varies over time; it can be measured using various devices.
Hydel power generation also uses methods like flow rate
measurements, weirs for low discharge rivers, vertical head,
turbine power, and turbine selection, using Archimedes screw,
impulse, and reaction turbines. However, FDC has not been
produced due to time constraints; but, three readings of the flow
were measured throughout the day. This study concludes that Left
Bank Outfall Drain (LBOD) is suitable for installing the micro
hydropower plant, though the main challenge is the vertical head,
which can be addressed through an extended penstock or a weir.
MICRO HYDROPOWER PLANT

According to Chavan et al. (2020), small hydropower plants

provide hydroelectric power generation to a small community or
industrial facility. The scale of small hydro projects tends to
differ in various literatures, however, a generating capacity of
up to 10 megawatts (MW) is usually considered the threshold of
what constitutes small hydropower. In the United States (US) this
may be expanded to 30 MW while in Canada it is 50 MW. The small
hydro also operates using the same principle with large hydro in
the generation of electricity.It's focus on generating
electricity using hydropower and aim to adress the need for
sustainable and reliable energy sources which is similar to study
being conducted

Small hydro power plants offer excellent electrical supply

options for rural electrification, providing financial benefits
and a diverse range of communities served. They are attractive
alternatives to diesel technologies in remote areas and are being
compared to other renewable energy sources in developing
countries. Ultra-small water power generation, specifically
micro-hydropower, has the great potential for the rural community
at a point when regions suffer from an energy crisis and lack
electricity. In general, the study puts forward a competitive
case for micro-hydropower as promising technology to meet rural
community energy requirements in support of sustainable
development.

WATER FLOW RATE

According to Quaranta (2018), water wheels where one of the

early hydraulic machines for converting water energy into
mechanical energy, they are also relevant in urban places and
remote areas due to their low installation and maintenance costs.
In “The performance of the water wheel depends on the blockage
ratio. In stream water wheels as renewable energy supply in
flowing water: Theoretical considerations, performance assessment
and design recommendations” the designs discussed focuses on the
wheel dimensions, supporting structures, blades and speed which
can provide recommendations that can be directly applied on the
Watt-a-Wheel project to improve the efficiency of the water-
powered turbines. Furthermore, the findings on energy output
variations based on flow conditions and blockage ratios are
crucial for predicting the energy generation potential of the
"Watt-a-Wheel" project. Understanding these factors is essential
for assessing the viability of hydroelectricity generation from
drainage water.

In flowing water only the kinetic energy of the flow could

be exploited by a stream water wheel, but the performance and
hydraulic behavior of stream wheels depend on Froude number and
blockage ratio. In “The performance of the water wheel depends on
the blockage ratio. In Stream water wheels as renewable energy
supply in flowing water: Theoretical considerations, performance
assessment and design recommendations”, water flows are
considered to be shallow when the blade length is very similar to
the water depth, and the presence of the wheel generates a high
blockage effect. In super critical flow, the velocity of the flow
is higher than in subcritical flow. In deep water, where the
blockage ratio is low, the wheel doesn’t stop the water from
passing which means that more water can go around and below the
wheel as the water level upstream rises. Eventually, the flow of
the water around the wheel balances out with the water hitting
the wheel (Quaranta, 2018).

MECHANICAL ENERGY TO ELECTRICITY

Mechanical energy, the energy stored by an object due to its

motion or position (Tara-Energy et al., 2022). Using this energy,
particularly from flowing water, has been a practice for
generating electricity through hydropower systems. Hydropower
utilizes the principle of converting the kinetic energy of water
into mechanical energy, which then drives a turbine connected to
a generator to produce electricity. This process has been widely
implemented across the world, with varying scales of hydropower
plants that contributes to the energy production of many
countries.
 The efficiency of hydropower generation depends on several
factors, including the volume and velocity of water flow, the
height difference between the water source and the turbine
(head), and the design of the turbine and generator system
(Deziel, 2018). Optimizing these parameters is suggested for
maximizing the electricity output of a hydropower system.
Furthermore, the integration of advanced technologies, such as
automated waste management systems in "Watt-A-Wheel" device, can
further enhance the efficiency and reliability of hydropower
generation by minimizing downtime and maintenance requirements.

INTEGRATION OF WATER SYSTEM TO ENERGY PRDUCTION

“Energy and water autarky of wastewater treatment and power

generation systems” deals with the independence of various
dissimilar variables, water and energy systems, putting much
emphasis on supplying water and treating wastewater along with
power generation. Energy is always crucial in supplying and
treating the water, while water on its part is fundamental to the
energy production; thus, making both challenging to put in place
without having effect over another. The ideal solution is to
integrate them to meet their needs, even though it's not always
feasible. As a result, they achieved autarky-self sufficiency in
either water or energy within these systems could offer a more
sustainable alternative (Gude, 2015).

It is emphasized that future innovations should focus on

integrated design, improving the overall self-reliance of these
systems. Better communication between energy and water systems,
resource-sharing, coordinated planning, and infrastructure
designs in support of both sectors may be able to realize such a
design. The authors conclude that the synergistic approach
supported by science-based policies and natural resource
regulations will contribute to sustainable development in the
areas of energy and water management.

ELECTRICITY
 Electricity, a fundamental phenomenon with widespread
applications in the society, plays a vital role in powering
various aspects of human life (Kashy et al., 2024). Its
generation and consumption patterns are central to understanding
the potential impact of renewable energy solutions. Research
indicates a huge calculation in electricity consumption across
the Philippines, with Luzon accounting for 72% of the total
demand (National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, 2024). This
shows the need for sustainable energy generation methods to
alleviate pressure on the national grid and ensure equitable
access to electricity across different regions.

The "Watt-A-Wheel," designed to initiate the kinetic energy

of drainage canal water, aligns with the global trend towards
renewable energy adoption. China, for instance, has
significantly increased its share of renewable energy sources,
including hydropower, wind, and solar, in recent years (NS Energy
Staff Writer, 2021). This shift towards decarbonizing electricity
grids underscores the importance of finding alternative energy
sources to mitigate the environmental impact of traditional
fossil fuels. "Watt-A-Wheel" can contribute to the Philippines'
efforts in adopting cleaner energy technologies and achieving a
more sustainable energy future. By utilizing a readily available
resource, which is the drainage water – this research offers a
localized and environmentally friendly approach to electricity
generation, potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuels and
promoting a more balanced energy.

RUN-OF-CANAL BASED MICRO-HYDRO SYSTEM

Pakistan is facing severe electricity shortages due to

industrialization, growing population, and urbanization. This
factor has increased the energy demands in all sectors of
Pakistan for the last two decades. Since the geographical
location of Pakistan makes it abundant in renewable energy
resources like hydro, solar, wind, and biomass (Kamran et al.
[2019]). This study proposed a run-of-canal micro-hydropower
system since it is cheap, clean, and environmentally friendly,
which is similar to the study conducted “Watt-A-Wheel: where
wastewater creates endless power” that is also installed in
drainage canal.

Designing and economic aspects of run-of-canal based micro-

hydropower plant was proposed on Balloki-Sulaimanki Link Canal-I,
because it has abundant power potential to fulfill the energy
demands of the nearby village. The construction of these plants
does not require a large water reservoir dam, making it feasible
in off-grid areas. The outline is the water from the canal is
drained into a small reservoir, then passed to a turbine to
convert potential energy into electrical energy, and after it
convert to electricity, the water is either used for irrigation
or sent back to the canal where it came from. Tools like HOMER
can help optimize these systems by analyzing costs and comparing
energy produced with its viability. This micro-hydropower study
provides an effective solution for energy supply, especially in
rural areas. Pakistan has approximately 59 GW of untapped
hydropower, yet 50 million people (27% of the population) still
lacks of electricity (Kamran et al. [2019]). By these studies,
the quality of life and agricultural productivity in rural
regions can improve, in a way that it is cheap and environmental-
friendly. Also, micro-hydroelectric power is more reliable as its
low maintenance system, meaning that it is perfect for remote and
complicated terrain areas.

CHAPTER III

Methodology

Research Design
The study will use quantitative experimental research design to
determine the effectiveness of water-powered turbines in
generating electricity from irrigation water. The dependent
variable is the electricity produced, while the independent
variable is the flow rate of irrigation water.

Experiments will be conducted in a controlled environment where

turbines are installed in a simulated irrigation system. The
generated electricity will be measured under various time, and
flow rates tests to determine the efficacy. This design ensures
precise control of variables, making an accurate assessment of
the system's efficiency and providing statistical evidence for
its feasibility and scalability as a sustainable energy source.

While this design provides a structured framework for

assessing the system's efficiency, it is acknowledged that
adjustments to the research design may be needed based on
findings or problems encountered during the experiment. This
ensures flexibility to remain adaptable to achieve accurate
results.

Research Flowchart
 Figure II. Flow Chart

First is Project Initiation, in this chart it is the

starting point, where a research project is begun. This explains
the project vision, objective, and scope. Next is Concept
Development, this stage involves brainstorming and refining the
main ideas for the research project. This includes exploring
different design concepts, feasibility, and the limitation of the
studies. Then it broke down into two parts, which is the first
one is Design Water-powered Turbine, this explains the designing
of the water-power turbine itself, as well as the materials that
will be used to construct it. Then proceed into Theoretical
Framework. This stage involves the relationship between water
flow and power generation. The theoretical framework has two
parts which is the study of flow where the researchers need to
analyze the flow rates and patterns, environmental factors, and
flow characteristics, and analyze hydroelectric principles where
the basic principles of hydroelectricity power is applied to
proceed in making the device’s design.
 After the theoretical framework, the next step is device
design. This involves the design and materials that are needed
for the device, and incorporating the sensors and flow meters to
get accurate measurements of water velocity and volume, and to
gather data on how the water is interacting with the turbine and
other components. Next is Experiment Setup, this will be done by
installing the device in the irrigation and installing the
monitoring tools. In this stage, the researchers will run
experiments where water flow is directed through the turbine, and
the system is monitored using the sensors and flow meters. Then
proceed to Data Collection. This involves the recording of flow
rates using flow meters, and measuring electricity output with
power meters. The data collected will determine the efficiency of
the system in converting the kinetic energy of the water flow
into usable electricity.

After the data collection, apply two-way ANOVA. A two-way

ANOVA statistical test determines if two independent variables
significantly affect the amount of hydroelectric power generated.
In this case, the independent variables must have been the flow
rate of water and some characteristic of the turbine, such as
design or material. The ANOVA tries to find out if variable
changes separately or their interaction is able to affect the
generation of power generation. Next is Correlate Flow Rates with
Energy, this step analyzes the relationship between water flow
rate and energy production using correlation analysis through its
flow. Correlational analysis determines the strength and
direction of that relationship; a strong positive correlation
would mean that high flow rates lead to high energy outputs. Then
proceed to Assess Practical Implementation and Evaluate of Energy
Efficiency, this stage addresses the practical feasibility and
efficiency of a water wheel system in real-world conditions. It
includes an environmental impact, and the overall efficiency of
energy conversion from water flow into electricity. Then Analyze
Environmental Benefits. The aim of this chart is to give a
comprehensive view of the positive environmental effects of
hydropower. It focuses on the positive environmental impacts of
hydropower. The last step is Presents Finding in Final Report,
the final step compiles all previous findings into a single,
comprehensive report. The report will summarize the methods used,
the results of ANOVA and the correlation analysis performed, and
assessments regarding the practical application and efficiency,
as well as its impact on the environment.

Study
Location

This study will be conducted in Bantug, La Torre, Talavera,

Nueva Ecija. This area is known for its agricultural landscape,
and relies heavily on irrigation and drainage system. The
irrigation system in this area are crucial for managing water
flow, especially during rainy seasons when heavy rainfall can
cause flooding. This location is a good place for the conducted
study. because, the micro-hydroelectric can be integrated into
these canals that can provide a renewable source of energy and,
in the process, can help improve water management. Being an
agricultural area that relies heavily on irrigation and drainage
systems, Bantug, La Torre, Talavera, Nueva Ecija would provide an
ideal testing ground for innovative energy solutions such as
Watt-A-Wheel. By testing this technology in such a context, it
will not only demonstrate the feasibility of integrating micro-
hydroelectric power into existing infrastructure but also
contribute to the broader goal of creating sustainable, energy-
efficient solutions for rural agricultural communities.
 Figure III. Study locale

Respondent Selection

The participants in this study are the researchers who

are carrying out the investigation. They will explore the
potential for generating electricity from irrigation systems and
assess how effective the proposed device is. By taking on the
roles of both investigators and respondents, they will be able to
directly evaluate the device's performance, feasibility, and how
well it can be integrated into current water management systems.
This method guarantees a thorough understanding of the study’s
goals, techniques, and results, offering valuable insights into
the practicality of using irrigation systems for sustainable
energy generation.

Sampling Method

This study uses purpose sampling to focus only on the

researchers themselves as study participants. Since the
researchers are directly responsible for the design, observation,
and evaluation of the water-powered turbine device, these are the
most appropriate people for providing detailed and consistent
information throughout the study. This rationale for this
approach lies in the fact that the researchers play a unique role
and possess comprehensive knowledge about the experimental setup,
operational parameters, and evaluation metrics of the
hydroelectric system. This way, the study will focus on the
researchers as participants and will thus ensure that
observations are consistent, precise, and fully aligned with the
research objectives. This approach demonstrates advanced
understanding of research techniques as it specifically targets
those individuals who would best collect high-quality data and
insights about the device's performance, feasibility, and
efficiency.

Research Instrument

The research instrument that will be used is an observational

checklist, integrated with the use of the 'Watt-a-Wheel' device,
since it provides a systematic and organized approach to
collecting data. This combination ensures consistency and
reliability in recording observations related to water flow,
turbine efficiency, and electricity generation, minimizing any
errors and enhancing data reliability. Also, this will allow the
researchers to test the device’s performance, environmental
conditions, and the relationship between variables, making it an
effective tool for conducting the 'Watt-a-Wheel' system's
effectiveness.

Data Collection Procedure

The researchers intend to evaluate the performance of the

What-A-Wheel device by systematically varying the time duration,
and flow rate of water. Different treatment groups will be tested
to deeply analyze the capacity and limits of What-A-Wheel. A
timer or stopwatch will be used for conducting different
replications for testing time duration. Meanwhile, a water flow
meter for a separate treatment group will monitor the water flow
through the system so as to determine its relationship on
electricity generation, which will be measured using a voltmeter.
The researchers will also carry out investigations, such as the
possibility of water interruption. Such measures will be done in
an effort to collate and analyze data regarding the overall
viability and performance of the device. Finally, the researchers
will organize the collected data in a tabular format and verify
its accuracy to ensure its reliability for analysis.

Data Interpretation

The statistical treatment for this purpose involves a two-

way ANOVA, the test used to determine whether or not two
independent variables affect a dependent variable.

In this study, the independent variable includes the time

duration testing and flow rate of water. While the dependent
variable is the amount of hydroelectric power generated.

Two-way ANOVA is suitable since the researchers will

correlate how the flow rate of water and the time duration
influences thw amount of energy generated. It not only analuzes
the effects of each factor alone but also analyzes the
interaction between the factors on power generation. This
approach allows a more detailed vreakdown of variance into
components contributed by each dactor and the interaction.

Phase I: The device construction

To begin, we will make a very solid frame out of wood that

would act as the strong holder for the wheel with its axle and
generator. Strong wooden planks would be assembled together to form
a rectangular or square frame that would usually be stable enough
for the size of components. The corners will be reinforced with L-
brackets, and there will be diagonal cross-braces for added
strength. The water wheel would be prepared with 2 circular discs
from plywood or metal, having evenly spaced paddles or blades
attached to them using screws or bolts. A hole will be drilled for
the center of the wheel to insert a steel axle. Bearings will be
fixed onto the frame using brackets to allow the smooth rotation
and the wheel will be fit onto the axle with clips or bolts.

Next will be attaching the DC generator or dynamo to the frame

and chaining it to the water wheel using a sprocket and chain
system alongside the axle where a sprocket will be mounted on the
axle and the other on the generator shaft slowing the two
components perfectly aligned and optimally fitting torque speed.
Next, we will bring protection to the electrical system by having a
diode in series with the generator to avoid any damaged generator
from reverse current flowing back once the wheel stops revolving.
We shall include a fuse which will be in series with the positive
wire to protect against overcurrent or short-circuit impact. After
installing the components, then we test it with water pouring over
the wheel, smoothly rotating it and powering up the generator. The
last stage will be checking the output from the generator by the
multimeter while confirming success regarding the diode and fuse
integration. Eventually, we consolidated all components,
weatherproof frame casings for the generator and electrical
components to prepare them from water incursion and debris. This
will be a simple, safe, and efficient electricity production method
from the flowing water.

Phase II: The instrument formulation

The observational checklist was developed to align it with the
specific objectives of the study, "Watt-a-Wheel: Initiating
Hydroelectricity from Irrigation Water Using Water-Powered
Turbines." The researchers first established the critical
variables required for the research questions. These will consist
of the characteristics of the irrigation water, including
parameters such as flow consistency, volume, and duration; the
performance of the turbine, covering rotational smoothness,
efficiency, and mechanical stability; and finally the electricity
output, including parameters of voltage, current, and overall
output. Each item of the checklist has been carefully selected to
correspond with measurable aspects of these variables for a
systematic and intensive observation process. The researchers
included contextual factors as well, that is, surrounding
environmental conditions and structural stability of the
irrigation system, providing a more encompassing understanding of
the factors that could influence its feasibility and performance.
The checklist was made practical and user-friendly by collapsing
it into very clear categories with short observation points. This
ensured consistency in running several data collection sessions.

The researchers chose the observational checklist for its

structured and objective collection of data. This tool arranged
all critical variables to be recorded in an organized manner,
thus reducing the chance of missing important details and
minimizing observer bias. The checklist really fitted the system
in this kind of study: it allowed a researcher to input
quantitative data concerning the duration the water flows and the
volume of the water, coupled with the given voltage, among
others, in addition to taking qualitative data—considering
consistent water flow rate and the response of the turbine. This
gives an all-embracing idea of the state of the systems and how
interaction occurs between those variables. In order to respond
to the checklist, the researchers kept real-time observations of
the system in its working state. Quantitative measurements for
some items on the checklist were obtained using equipment like a
stopwatch, flowmeter, and voltmeter. For these qualitative
observations, they relied on visual inspections and
systematically recorded findings based on descriptions predefined
in the checklist. This method ensured accuracy and reliability in
the data collection process, and it also aligned with the goal of
the study, which was to evaluate the feasibility and
effectiveness of the system in generating hydroelectricity from
irrigation water.