What is Hydroelectric energy?

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Hydroelectric Energy

Hydroelectric energy is a renewable energy source using the hydrologic cycle of water, which involves evaporation and the flow of water due to gravity.

Accessing this energy from flowing waters can produce low-cost electricity.

Today, this is the largest form of renewable energy in the world.

Hydroelectric Energy Advantages

Out of all the renewable energy systems this has the lowest cost per watt hour.

A consistant all year round power output.

Usually this system doesn't require a large battery bank.

Unlike many other renewable energy systems, this one is not obtrusive.

It is relatively quiet.

Minimum maintenance is required.

Hydroelectric Disadvantages

Water supply is not always available.

Often requires substantial modification of water resource.

Initial installation cost can be high.

In colder climates, freezing of pipes, can be a problem.

Moving parts will eventually wear out.

The larger installations have created problems of their own. By blocking rivers with massive dams problems have arisen including;

Habitat destruction of local wildlife

Prevention of fish passage

Displacement of local communities

However, done correctly, it can be a sustainable and non-polluting source of energy that can help decrease our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce the threat of global warming.

Useful resources

Click on solar photovoltaic energy for information on solar for electricity.

Click on diy solar heating for information on solar water heating.

To go back to the renewable energy page.

To return to our solar energy home page.