Environmental Technologies and Eco-innovation in the Czech ...

However, the development of technologies for small water heads and direct flow 2
micro and small HPP, which do not significantly influence waterways and water
wildlife, is being supported. Thus, water energy is an energy source being looked at by
small investors to deliver electricity. These projects are eligible for financial allowances
known as green bonuses.
In addition to large HPP (above 10 MW), 536 small HPP exist in the Czech Republic,
and this number is still increasing. ČKD Blansko Holding a.s., delivers turbines not
only in the Czech Republic, but throughout Europe, Asia and America. It is one of the
most prominent producers of turbines and equipment for small HPP. The company
produces all types of turbines. The company also has its own research department
studying water equipment and a hydraulic testing department. There are only a handful
of organizations in this field worldwide.
2.2.2 | Wind power plants
At the end of 2008, the Czech Republic had 149.7 MW of electricity from wind
power plants. Based on the number of filed applications for assessing environmental
impacts, it is anticipated that further development will continue in the coming
years. It is a popular energy source with a short construction time for investors.
Interrupted energy generation is a considerable disadvantage of WPPs (wind power
plants). With a large concentration of WPPs, the stability of transmission systems can
be endangered. This is known as “blackout” 3 . Thus, it is therefore important that WPPs
have a total redundant classical source of electricity generation. Solutions are being
sought by joining WPPs with storage networks, by connecting WPPs to “intelligent
networks” (see the Chapter 2.7 – Intelligent network development) and in intensifying
international interconnections of energy systems. Under these circumstances, WPPs
would become potential sources of generation.
Today, WPPs are being constructed throughout the entire Czech Republic. Both large
corporations such as ČEZ, a.s. and JT Group s.r.o. and small entities are investing in this
technology. As of June 2008, 52 WPPs were installed. Current projects include Pchery
in Kladensko (2 x 3 MW), a wind park in Stříbro in Tachovsko (13 x 2 MW) and in the
surroundings of the Dukovany nuclear power plant of (9 x 2 MW).
2 direct flow water power plants – water power plants located right in the water course
3 blackout – a total interruption of electricity supplies on a large scale
34 | 35