Matt - If you have a good site for a micro-hydro application, then you are definitely in luck! At appropriate sites, these systems have efficiencies of 65% or better. (As opposed to solar electric modules which have efficiencies closer to 13-15% in converting sunlight to electricity.)
Site assessment and location of turbine will be very important. Be sure to read up about that. You might find it helpful to start with our "How-To" section. (Here's a link.)
http://howto.altenergystore.com/How-To-Library/Micro-Hydro-Electric/c12/An overview:
http://howto.altenergystore.com/The-Basics/Micro-Hydro-Power-Systems-Overview/a27/We have also found this book pretty helpful:
http://store.altenergystore.com/Books-Seminars-Videos/Micro-Hydropower/MicroHydro-Scott-Davis/p4342/Keep in mind local regulations regarding the river as well. Again, research and site analysis will really pay off. Good luck!
