International Journal of Applied Power Engineering (IJAPE)
Vol 15, No 2: June 2026

Hydroelectric power generator using vertical axis turbine with adaptive blades

Rizki Nurilyas Ahmad (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Soraya Komala Firdaus (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Mohammad Nasrul Mubin (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Hasyim Asy'ari (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Tindyo Prasetyo (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Iqbal Reza Pradana (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2026

Abstract

The implementation of micro-hydro power plants (MHPPs) offers a strategic solution for achieving energy independence, particularly within remote communities. This study proposes the development of a hydroelectric power generator with a vertical axis turbine, designed not only as a source of clean energy but also to minimize visual pollution. The system maximizes submerged components, thereby reducing its visual impact. Although MHPPs technology is widely applied to address electrification challenges in remote areas, the system proposed in this study, with its components predominantly submerged below the water surface, offers a visually unobtrusive solution that is also well-suited for urban environments. However, conventional locked-blade turbines often experience significant efficiency losses due to counter-flow pressure acting on blades moving against the water stream, highlighting the need for an adaptive mechanism to minimize drag and optimize energy capture. The hydroelectric power generator using vertical axis turbine with adaptive blades consistently demonstrated better performance than a system using locked blades. The adaptive-blade configuration outperformed the locked-blade system, exhibiting a 5.1% increase in average turbine efficiency and a 3.5% improvement in overall system efficiency.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJAPE

Publisher

Subject

Electrical & Electronics Engineering

Description

International Journal of Applied Power Engineering (IJAPE) focuses on the applied works in the areas of power generation, transmission and distribution, sustainable energy, applications of power control in large power systems, etc. The main objective of IJAPE is to bring out the latest practices in ...