Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District (CNPPID) is a public power and irrigation district located in the state of Nebraska, United States. The district was established in 1933 and since then, it has been providing reliable and affordable electricity and irrigation services to its customers. CNPPID is committed to promoting sustainable development and reducing its carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy projects. One of the renewable energy sectors that CNPPID is actively involved in is small hydro.

Small hydro refers to the generation of electricity using the power of moving water. CNPPID has several small hydro projects in operation, which generate clean and renewable energy for its customers. The district's small hydro projects are located on canals, ditches, and streams, and they have a combined capacity of 11.5 megawatts (MW). These projects are an important part of CNPPID's renewable energy portfolio, which also includes wind, solar, and biomass.

One of CNPPID's most significant small hydro projects is the Elwood Reservoir Hydroelectric Project. The project is located on the Elwood Reservoir, which is a man-made lake created by the district's irrigation system. The project has a capacity of 2.4 MW and generates enough electricity to power approximately 1,800 homes. The project was completed in 2014 and was the first hydroelectric project to be built in Nebraska in over 20 years.

Another small hydro project that CNPPID operates is the North Platte Hydroelectric Project. The project is located on the North Platte River and has a capacity of 3.2 MW. The project was completed in 1983 and has been generating clean and renewable energy for over three decades. The project is an important source of revenue for the district, as it sells the electricity it generates to the Nebraska Public Power District.

CNPPID's small hydro projects not only generate clean and renewable energy but also provide other benefits to the district. For example, the Elwood Reservoir Hydroelectric Project helps to regulate the water level in the Elwood Reservoir, which is used for irrigation. The project also provides recreational opportunities, such as fishing and boating, for the local community. Similarly, the North Platte Hydroelectric Project helps to regulate the flow of the North Platte River, which is used for irrigation and provides habitat for fish and wildlife.

CNPPID's commitment to renewable energy is driven by its mission to provide reliable and affordable energy to its customers while protecting the environment. The district recognizes the importance of reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability, and it has set ambitious goals to achieve these objectives. For example, CNPPID aims to generate 10% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020 and 20% by 2025.

To achieve these goals, CNPPID is investing in a variety of renewable energy projects, including small hydro. The district is also exploring new technologies and innovative solutions to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of its renewable energy projects. For example, CNPPID is evaluating the use of battery storage systems to store excess energy generated by its renewable energy projects and use it during times of high demand.

In addition to its renewable energy projects, CNPPID is also committed to promoting energy efficiency and conservation. The district offers a variety of programs and incentives to help its customers reduce their energy consumption and save money on their utility bills. These programs include rebates for energy-efficient appliances, home energy audits, and educational resources on energy conservation.

Overall, CNPPID is a leader in renewable energy development in Nebraska and the United States. The district's small hydro projects are an important part of its renewable energy portfolio and help to promote sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint. CNPPID's commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency is driven by its mission to provide reliable and affordable energy to its customers while protecting the environment.