Conventional hydropower systems that can take advantage of low head movement of water require
substantial flow rates. However, these systems cannot harvest hydro energy from small sources of water
with low head and low discharge, such as streams and creeks. The reciprocating hydropower system
discussed in this paper can harvest power from such low flow discharge and low head sources. This
paper presents a detailed proof-of-concept study of the hydropower model, including the underlining
theoretical principles. Laboratory test results demonstrating the dependence of the lift force in the
reciprocating small scale hydropower model as a function of flow velocity, size and rotational speed of
the cylinder and comparison of the results with a previous study are also included. Two methods of
power harvesting from the output displacement obtained from the hydropower system are discussed.
The first employs electromagnetic induction principles and the other is based on a linear inertial
generator using a conventional second order spring mass damper system. Finally, results from a finite
element analysis of the hydropower system are presented and facilitate future design of the structural aspects of the housing for the reciprocating cylinder.