Socio-Technical Viability Framework for Micro Hydropower in Group Water-Energy Schemes

Most renewable energy (RE) studies focus on technology readiness, environmental benefits and/or cost savings. The market permeation, viability and adoption of RE technologies such as micro hydropower (MHP), however, require the alignment other interrelated factors, socio-technical, institutional political dimensions. This is particularly case where recovery potential in decentralised water networks being explored part a wholesome sustainability strategy by for individual communal prosumers. study employs socio-technical approach to understand factors that influence perceived MHP group water-energy schemes. Methods included progressive literature review formulate conceptual framework implementation systems. was validated using survey data from representative stakeholders groups schemes Ireland Spain. These were sampled surveyed at stage considering their networks. findings highlight push–pull discusses opportunities barriers It confirms market, policy context, financial benefits, social support collaborative services combine technology. Thus, evaluating systems based these more realistic integrated, multi-dimensional criteria proposed.