The FishSafe™ Restoration Hydro Turbine (RHT) is a unique, hydropower turbine designed by Natel Energy to generate power efficiently while also enabling safe downstream passage for a variety of aquatic organisms.

*What makes the RHT safe for aquatic life?*
The RHT's blade is curved, which helps to funnel fish toward the center of the turbine, where rotational speeds are lower. The RHT blade also has a thick, blunted leading edge, which, unlike a traditional turbine's thin, sharp leading edge, can impact a fish without harming it.

*How do we know the RHT is safe for aquatic life?*
At Natel, we take fish passage seriously! We do extensive modeling of turbine designs, and we also conduct fish passage testing, both in a laboratory setting, and in the field at installed RHT sites. As of 2024, we have passed American eel, river herring, sturgeon, rainbow trout, catfish, and bluegill of various sizes through RHTs of various sizes, with a 98-100% survival rate. Check out the published results on our website: [ Ссылка ]

*What about power production?*
At peak head conditions, Natel's Restoration Hydro Turbine operates at greater than 90% efficiency, on par with industry standard turbines. Safe through-turbine fish passage also means that hydropower plants may be able to eliminate fine fish exclusion screens or minimize bypasses, increasing overall plant efficiency by allowing more water flow to pass through the turbines.

*Will it fit in existing dams?*
FishSafe™ RHTs are designed to work as in-place replacements for standard Francis, Kaplan, or propeller turbines and can be an excellent choice for repowering or retrofiting. Working with our distinguished manufacturing partners, Natel can provide RHTs as direct replacements for existing turbines or existing turbine runners. Learn more about our partners: [ Ссылка ]

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*Video narration:* Sterling Watson
*Video edit:* Andy Baumgartner

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