Table of Contents
Are you wondering about the facts about hydropower? Hydropower is also known as water power which is a renewable energy source for generating electricity. Hydropower generates electricity from moving water. And this is a clean, renewable source of energy. It has been used for centuries to provide mechanical power for various activities.
The innovation of hydropower reduces greenhouse gas emissions and has a significant impact on the world’s renewable energy. Today, we will explore the surprising facts about hydropower.
How Does Hydropower Work?
By utilizing the kinetic energy source of moving water to rotate turbines, usually, hydropower generates electricity. The elevation of the water source and flow rate determined the quantity of power.
Generally, hydro plants are located on rivers or any other bodies which exhibit the difference in height.
However, you can find two types of hydropower; these are – run-of-river and impoundment.
Run-of-river plants generate electricity by diverting a portion of river water flow through the pipe and returning to the river downstream. Besides, impoundment plants usually keep water in a reservoir so that they can generate electricity when needed.
Hydropower generates electricity depending on the availability of water resources. In addition, hydropower can produce more electricity from wind or solar, or any other peak load power.
The Impacts Of Hydropower
Hydropower has a great impact on both the environment and the economy. It does not emit greenhouse gasses or any kind of pollutants. In addition, hydropower has great effects on water quality, the livelihoods of local communities, and aquatic ecosystems.
However, hydropower projects may have an impact on aquatic life or fish since the power required the river flow pattern. Also, it can affect water quality as it causes sedimentation.
If the hydropower projects are on a large scale, chances are they could displace local communities and traditional practices. Also, it may be the cause of environmental conflicts.
Although, with these challenges, in many countries, hydropower is a vital source of electricity. Especially, in developing countries, hydropower is a great source of power as electricity access is limited.
Moreover, it has a significant impact on economic benefits as it creates job creation, generates revenue, and so on.
The Role Of Hydropower In Renewable Energy
Hydropower provides 71% of global electricity generation and is vital for renewable energy. It’s an eco-friendly source and can combat climate change by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
It can generate electricity in large or small quantities and provide baseload, peak load power, and energy storage. Hydropower surpasses wind and solar as renewable energy sources due to its versatility and reliability.
Hydropower significantly enhances renewable energy sources like solar and wind by providing backup power. Hence, it can help to increase the reliability and stability of the electricity grid, particularly in regions with high levels of renewable energy penetration.
FAQs About Hydropower
Who Invented Hydropower?
Hydropower was invented by British-American engineer James Francis who developed the modern water turbine in the mid-1800s.
Where Does Hydropower Come From?
Hydropower can be generated from different moving water sources.
Is Hydropower Renewable?
Yes, hydropower is renewable because it stored water in dams to create electricity.
How Does Hydropower Affect The Environment?
Hydropower is better for the environment than any major source of electrical power. As hydropower does not emit waste heat and gases so this does not contribute to air pollution.
Conclusion
Hydropower helped improved the quality of life of millions of people and it’s an important source of electricity. The potential of hydropower is increasing. So, the industry should work together to generate electricity from water since it is great for the environment. Hopefully, now you understand the facts about hydropower.
