Working in the field of micro- to small-hydropower - particularly in the development of Near Net Shape (NNS) technology to turbine design and production - Cadens has developed a low-head hydropower research facility in southeast WI to test and develop site-specific turbine systems. The firm's principals are applying CAD-driven, additive manufacturing and modern power electronics to create innovative hydropower technologies that will significantly reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for hydropower. Retrofiting non-hydropower dams with new, lightweight hydro turbine machines could enable greater use of small and micro hydro power generation: a proven, mature technology with widely known benefits. These include low environmental impact not dependent on fossil fuels non-polluting low operating and maintenance costs continuously renewable electrical energy source long economic life one of the most efficient energy conversion technologies
