How is it created?
Hydroelectricity (hydropower) is created in two main ways, using dams or using the natural flow of water. A dam is built creating a reservoir at the top. When electricity is needed gates open releasing the water which then tuns a turbine which is attached to a generator. Through this process, electricity can be generated using dams. Using the natural flow of rivers is similar to using dams, the structureonly difference is that there is no dam. River hydropower systems rely on the force of naturally flowing water to spin the turbines rather than a man made structure.
Hydroelectricity (hydropower) is created in two main ways, using dams or using the natural flow of water. A dam is built creating a reservoir at the top. When electricity is needed gates open releasing the water which then tuns a turbine which is attached to a generator. Through this process, electricity can be generated using dams. Using the natural flow of rivers is similar to using dams, the structureonly difference is that there is no dam. River hydropower systems rely on the force of naturally flowing water to spin the turbines rather than a man made structure.
How much does it cost to install hydropower?
Anywhere from $1,000-$6,000 depending on the type of system.
Anywhere from $1,000-$6,000 depending on the type of system.
What are the benefits of hydropower?
- Hydropower is a clean fuel source, meaning it won't pollute the air.
- The energy generated through hydropower relies on the water cycle, which is driven by the sun which makes it a renewable power source.
- Provides flood control, irrigation, and water supply
- Although upfront costs of constructing and installing hydropower are high, once it's functional the costs of maintenance and operating become extremely low.
Drawbacks of Hydropower
- The damming of water can affect fish habitats
- Could potentially be affected by droughts
Fun Facts
- Hydropower is one of the oldest power sources on the planet
- Hydroelectric power is the most commonly used renewable energy source
- Niagara Falls was the site of the country's first hydroelectric generating facility, built in 1882
- Worldwide hydroelectric power generates enough electricity to meet the needs of 28.3 million people
Sources
“Affordable.” National Hydropower Association, www.hydro.org/waterpower/why-hydro/affordable/.
“Benefits of Hydropower.” Department of Energy, www.energy.gov/eere/water/benefits-hydropower.
“Affordable.” National Hydropower Association, www.hydro.org/waterpower/why-hydro/affordable/.
“Hydroelectric Power.” Acid Rain, butane.chem.uiuc.edu/pshapley/project/amanda/funfacts.html.
“Affordable.” National Hydropower Association, www.hydro.org/waterpower/why-hydro/affordable/.
“Benefits of Hydropower.” Department of Energy, www.energy.gov/eere/water/benefits-hydropower.
“Affordable.” National Hydropower Association, www.hydro.org/waterpower/why-hydro/affordable/.
“Hydroelectric Power.” Acid Rain, butane.chem.uiuc.edu/pshapley/project/amanda/funfacts.html.