In line with national policies on renewable energy development and achieving net-zero carbon emissions, the Irrigation Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture has actively promoted installing small hydropower systems in irrigation canals and other agricultural water facilities. The Taichung Management Office of the Agency leveraged the terrain and water flow of the Houli Canal to successfully complete the Houli Canal Micro Hydropower Plant. The facility was officially inaugurated on September 30, marking a milestone in public-private collaboration to advance micro hydropower generation in agricultural irrigation systems.
Irrigation First, Green Energy Added Value
Director General Tsai Sheng-fu of the Irrigation Agency highly praised the Houli Canal Micro Hydropower Plant, calling it an “invisible” power station. He emphasized that small hydropower systems have low carbon emissions and minimal environmental impact, making them a promising form of decentralized renewable energy. Without compromising irrigation functions, farmers’ water rights, or the ecological environment, the Agency’s regional management offices have actively identified suitable sites for small hydropower development. Based on the unique characteristics and hydraulic conditions of each canal, they have planned and implemented models tailored to local conditions. This effort embodies the agricultural policy of “Irrigation First, Green Energy Added Value,” aligning with the national goals of renewable energy development and achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
Century-Old Irrigation Canal Incorporates Power Generation Function
Director Wang Man-Jing of the Taichung Management Office, Irrigation Agency, stated that the Houli Canal was constructed in 1909 and completed in 1913. Extending approximately 20 kilometers, it irrigates approximately 3,150 hectares of farmland and has served as an essential irrigation facility supporting the development of the Houli and Waipu regions for over a century. In accordance with the Irrigation Agency’s agricultural policy, “Irrigation First, Green Energy Added Value,” the Office commenced field surveys and analyses three years ago to evaluate the terrain and water flow characteristics along the Houli Canal. Based on these findings, plans were made to utilize a 4-meter drop between sections 4k+540 and 4k+720 (Land No. 44, Houan Section, Houli District) to construct a new underground water intake channel aligned with the canal. Four integrated submersible turbine generator units, each with a capacity of 15 kW, were installed, resulting in a total installed capacity of 60 kW. This system diverts water to generate electricity before returning it to the original irrigation canal, thereby maintaining uninterrupted irrigation functions. The project is projected to generate approximately 420,000 kWh annually and achieve a carbon reduction of roughly 200,000 kilograms per year, equivalent to the carbon absorption capacity of 17,000 trees.
Director Wang further noted that the system employs a concealed underground design that preserves the original irrigation functions as well as the surrounding landscape, without causing any environmental disturbance. It is also straightforward to maintain and manage. Although modest in scale, this project exemplifies successful renewable energy development and environmental sustainability, highlighting the significant potential for diversified utilization of agricultural water facilities.
Promoting Green Energy Education Aligned with National Net-Zero Goals
The Irrigation Agency underscores that irrigation canals serve as vital infrastructure flowing through farmlands and communities, closely connected to farmers’ livelihoods and local residents’ daily lives. Developing small-scale hydropower generation at appropriate sites not only enhances the multifunctional value of irrigation facilities but also provides an excellent platform to promote green energy education and sustainable living. Although micro hydropower generation along canals is constrained by limited elevation differences and low water flow, resulting in relatively modest power output, its environmental benefits make it highly valuable for promotion. Moving forward, the Irrigation Agency will continue collaborating with the Energy Administration of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and leverage resources from industry, academia, and research institutions to identify potential sites for small hydropower development, thereby contributing to the nation’s renewable energy targets and net-zero carbon goals.