The Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydroelectricity

Hydroelectricity is energy that is harnessed from water power. It is one of the most used forms of alternative energy in the entire world, every years about 20% of the energy used was gotten from hydropower. The power is generated from the movement of water, like waterfalls or streams, and collected in generators as it flows through them. Hydro power is thought to be the best source for renewable energy, but what are the drawbacks?

The Advantages of Hydroelectricity

1. Completely Renewable
The biggest perk of using hydroelectricity is the fact that it is a renewable source of energy. The reason is it considered as a renewable source is because it uses the natural power of the water on earth in order to conduct the energy.

2. Reliable Energy
Hydroelectricity is extremely reliable. The water is always moving and generating energy, meaning that power outages and other issue would not need to be considered.

3. Constant Costs
The costs to run hydroelectricity plants remains very consistent and doesn’t fluctuate underneath economic, political, or any other conditions that would effect other types of energy sources.

4. Clean As A Whistle
Hydropower doesn’t pollute the environment at any stage of the process. No green house gas emissions are put into the environment, which further damage the atmosphere.

5. Free Source of Energy
Moving water is everywhere on the planet, and nature is the one that is moving it. Harnessing the power from the movement of these waters is the only cost that is incurred, and after initial construction, these costs are minimal.

6. Scenic Value
The dams that are built to harness the hydroelectricity are often very beautiful, and add a scenic element for campers, hikers, and fisherman.

The Disadvantages of Hydroelectricity

1. Animal Disruption
The turbines and dams that are built on the rivers or streams interrupt the natural flow of the fish and other wildlife that lives in the area.

2. Construction Costs
The initial costs of building the facilities are very high. These costs are often covered by tax payer money, if from people who do not agree with the facility’s construction.

3. Water Quality Compromised
Water sources that have dams and hydroelectricity facilities built in them can easily be polluted by the foreign movement. This could be a risk for anyone who depends on this water.

4. Droughts
In cases of droughts the amount of energy that is created is greatly impacted. This could lead to power shortages or rationing in areas affected.

5. Forced Relocation
The building of the dams affect a large area around the construction site. This could force people, businesses, and animals from their homes.

Important Facts About Hydroelectricity

  • 96% of the renewable energy used in America is from hydroelectricity.
  • The turbines used in hydropower can be started or stopped instantly.
  • There have been over 5,500 suitable hydro power facility sites in the United States alone.
  • Hydropower is the best option for redirecting electricity in emergency situations.
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