Now Energy Systems develops and deploys environmentally compatible hydropower solutions, including modernizing existing dams and building new low-head, run-of-river facilities. Their patented FishSafe™ turbine technology maximizes energy generation while ensuring high fish survival rates and improving riverine health.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional hydropower development often faces environmental concerns and limitations in fish passage, impacting riverine ecosystems. Furthermore, the construction and operational efficiency of existing hydropower facilities can be suboptimal, limiting their capacity to meet growing demand for reliable, zero-carbon electricity.
Solution
Now Energy Systems engineers and deploys advanced hydropower solutions designed for environmental compatibility and enhanced energy generation. The company focuses on modernizing existing dam infrastructure and developing new low-head, run-of-river facilities. By integrating Natel Energy's patented FishSafe™ Restoration Hydro Turbine (RHT) runner technology, Now Energy ensures minimal impact on aquatic life while maximizing power output. Their approach prioritizes CAPEX-efficient construction methods and designs that improve dissolved oxygen levels in rivers, contributing to improved riverine health. This strategy enables the delivery of consistent, 24/7 zero-carbon electricity, supporting a sustainable energy future.
Target Audience
Now Energy Systems targets entities such as US Army Corps of Engineers, private dam owners, utilities, hyperscaler companies, and hard-to-decarbonize industries seeking to develop or upgrade hydropower facilities for reliable, zero-carbon electricity generation.
Features
- **FishSafe™ Restoration Hydro Turbine (RHT) Runner:** Features thick, forward-swept blades designed for high fish survival rates (tested at 98-100% survival for various species) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) validated performance.
- **High Hydraulic Efficiency:** Achieves over 90% peak hydraulic efficiency, coupled with resistance to cavitation, ensuring optimal energy conversion.
- **Low-Head, Run-of-River Design:** Safeguards a majority of river flow, utilizing less than half for the hydropower system, and is designed to operate efficiently across a broad range of river flow conditions, achieving plant capacity factors over 75%.
- **Environmental Enhancements:** Turbine designs return water to the river without temperature increase and with an increase in dissolved oxygen, benefiting riverine health.
- **Precast Concrete Modular Construction:** Leverages patented modular components for faster, higher-quality, and lower-risk dam construction.
- **Extended Equipment Lifespan:** Hydropower equipment is designed for operation exceeding 100 years with proper maintenance.
- **Stakeholder Collaboration Framework:** Employs a collaborative approach with all project stakeholders from site selection to commercial operation to streamline project development.