Tecnoturbines is a Spanish startup that helps to save money by converting hydraulic energy into electricity through the use of a microturbine system.

The energy available in the form of excess pressure in water distribution networks is normally lost, because the valves controlling it aren’t capable of taking advantage of this potential power and instead release it. A team of Spanish engineers recognized this lost potential and decided to do something about it.

This was how Tecnoturbines, was born. This startup company generates electricity by taking advantage of existing hydraulic infrastructure, thanks to an innovative technology using microturbines. The company’s mission is to produce electricity whose potential until now has been lost, and thereby provide cost savings.

The company’s project applies regenerative braking technology, which has become popularized by the KERS system used in Formula 1 racing. A turbine is set in motion by the excess water pressure and, as it turns, the mechanical energy created is used to generate electricity.

The microturbines are much less expensive than traditional mechanical turbines, but still provide the same operating ranges and efficiency. Their overall efficiency reaches 75%.

The electronic technology from Tecnoturbines is able to convert hydraulic energy into electricity regardless of how fast the generator is turning. The electricity that is produced is either used on site or sold over the national grid. The power output ranges from 4kw up to 500kw.

This startup company will continue to grow as its technology is adopted by industries which use large quantities of water.