Hydropower

Hydropower

What is Hydro-power?

Hydro-power is a form of energy powered from the force of moving water.  Hydro-power is the renewable energy source that produces the most electricity in the United States. It accounts for 7% of the total U.S. electricity generation and 67% of generation from renewables in 2008.  

Advantages to hydroelectric power:

*Fuel is not burned so there is minimal pollution
*Water to run the power plant is provided free by nature
*Hydro-power plays a major role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions
*Relatively low operations and maintenance costs
*The technology is reliable and proven over time
*It’s renewable – rainfall renews the water in the reservoir, so the fuel is almost always there

More Resources

Foundation for Water and Energy Education (FWEE)

Sustainability of Ground Water Resources

The Nature of Water-Environment Canada

United Nations World Water Assessment Programme