Electronic Load Controller (ELC) is used to stabilize the generator output (frequency & voltage) due to the load change in consumer by diverting the excess power to the dummy load (ballast). The switching to the ballast load is done by the thyristor (Triac/SCR) which on/off controlled by ELC main board based on frequency variation.

Protel Multi Energy Electronic load controller (ELC-PME) is in operation in more then 150 sites of MHP all over Indonesia and Asia ranging from 3 kW-150 kW, with total capacity more then 2.5 MW. It Is designed to suit with different type of generator and various application of micro hydro, such as :

• Synchronous generator with AVR (brushless) (1 Phase/3 Phase)
• Synchronous generator without AVR (brushless) (1 Phase/3 Phase)
• Productive use of generator (motors, and large load)
• Grid interconnection
• Suitable with most of turbine type (Crossflow, Kaplan, Propeller, Pelton, etc)

There are many benefit with the utilization of ELC on the micro hydro scheme comparing to other type of controls, such as:

• Generated Frequency and Voltage are stable (220-230 V / ±50 hz)
• Avoid the damage on electrical and electronic appliances such as lamps, TVs, radio, motors, etc. Due to frequency and voltage fluctuation
• Avoid the damage of generator due to runaway speed when the consumer is off or decreased
• No water hammer effect, since no need of   water flow adjustment or closing
• Fast recovery time, capable in handling sudden large load change in very quick 10 ms.
• Simple, robust and easy in operation and maintenance.
• ELC is much cheaper comparing to other type of controller, thus affordable for low budget project and village electrification scheme