EBMUD pilots in-conduit hydroelectric system

East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) has partnered with a California-based clean energy company to generate electricity from the flow of water in its distribution system. EBMUD said the investment supports its energy policy goal to become carbon neutral by 2030.

InPipe Energy's new in-conduit hydroelectric system works like traditional pressure regulating valves in a utility's water distribution system but uses a turbine to reduce water pressure in the distribution pipeline while generating electricity. This creates a reliable, clean source of power, according to the company.