Multi-criteria analysis of turbines for pico-hydro power plant in water irrigation channel

We present the Multi-criteria Analysis of turbines for Pico-Hydro Power plant in Ambato–Huachi–Pelileo water irrigation channel. Not only, we have been able to perform a turbine selection using the common requirements like head and flow rate. But also, we have taken into account a multi-criteria analysis by considering: Quantitative criteria, such as Efficiency and Size, combined with Qualitative criteria, such as Maintainability & Serviceability, Portability, Modularity, and Installation Environment requirements. The criteria were analyzed by using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). We have reviewed different turbine options for being used in a pico-hydropower plants, from the analytical hierarchy process. We have concluded that Michell Banki turbine is the recommendable option in terms of easy build and highly efficient. The study of the requirements for the development of Pico-Hydro Power plant in Ambato–Huachi–Pelileo water irrigation channel in Ecuador will be a promising method for meeting the energy needs using renewable resources and avoiding the conventional fossil fuels or any other approach that affects the environment. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.