Though a long-established technology in Europe, Archimedes screws are a well-established technology but have yet to gain traction in the U.S. That seems to be changing—the first U.S. generating station to be powered by an Archimedes screw turbine has been commissioned by the New England Hydropower Company, LLC in Connecticut.

The sluiceway, powerhouse and screw trough were all completed on an existing dam at Hanover Pond in Meriden to accept machinery in December 2016, and in April 2017 the Hanover Pond Hydro facility entered operation. The run-of-river project is expected to generate 920,000 kWh of electricity annually and will operate under a long-term power purchase agreement with the city of Meriden.

A safe downstream passage adjacent to the upstream fish ladder will provide renewable energy that is “fish friendly” with zero carbon emissions. The Archimedes Screw Generator (ASG) was craned into place in Meriden, CT. Image credit: New England Hydropower Company