When you think of renewable energy sources, solar and wind power probably come to mind first. But did you know about the massive potential of hydropower? Hydroelectric power plants have been generating affordable, clean electricity for over a century by harnessing the incredible kinetic energy of moving water.
How Hydropower Works
Hydropower plants funnel flowing water from rivers or reservoirs to spin powerful turbines and generators to produce electricity. The faster and more forceful the water flow, the more energy can be captured. Some plants also store water in reservoirs so it can be released as needed to generate electricity during periods of high demand.
A Longstanding Renewable Source
Hydropower is actually one of the oldest sources of renewable energy, with the first hydroelectric power plant launching way back in the 1880s. Today, hydroelectric facilities across the United States generate about 7% of the nation’s total electricity every year from this clean, reliable source.
Advantages of Hydroelectric Power
So what is it that makes hydropower such an important renewable energy source? Here are a few of the key benefits:
- It is renewable – Rivers and rainfall constantly replenish the water supply.
- It is clean – Hydropower plants do not produce any greenhouse gas emissions.
- It is affordable – The costs of operating hydro plants are very low.
- It is flexible – Water flow can be adjusted to meet changing electricity demands.
- It is reliable – Hydropower is a proven, dependable technology.
The Role of Reservoirs and Dams
Many hydropower facilities rely on dams to create reservoirs that can store immense volumes of water from rivers. This stored water is then released through the dam’s spillways to spin the plant’s turbines on demand. While dams can have environmental effects, modern reservoirs are carefully designed to limit any disruptions.
Protection and Controls Are Critical
According to the experts at Commonwealth, to ensure the safety and reliability of hydroelectric dams and plants, robust protection and control systems are absolutely critical. Monitoring equipment, automated control mechanisms, and strict safety protocols help to safeguard these large facilities against hazards, maintain efficient operations, and prevent emergencies that could damage the plant or downstream areas.
Pumped Storage Hydropower
One novel type of hydropower plant is called pumped storage. At these special facilities, excess electricity from other plants is used to pump water from a lower reservoir up to a higher elevated reservoir, where it is stored. Then during periods of high electricity demand, this stored water can be released to generate hydropower.
Room for Massive Growth
While hydropower already plays a key role in the nation’s renewable energy mix, there is still immense potential for additional growth. The United States is blessed with plenty of rivers and water resources that could be tapped for new hydroelectric projects and increased generation capacity.
Small and Micro Hydropower
In addition to large facilities, small and even micro hydroelectric plants are emerging. These plants can generate renewable electricity from small canals, streams, and even tidal flows. Some micro hydro plants are built right into existing drinking water pipelines and aqueduct systems to capture the energy from water flow.
Conclusion: A Renewable Energy Future
As the push for cleaner, renewable energy ramps up to combat climate change, hydropower is well-positioned to play an increasingly vital role in America’s sustainable energy future. With its advantages of being renewable, affordable, clean, and reliable, coupled with room for major growth, hydroelectric power has limitless potential for generations to come. Continuing to develop and expand hydropower resources responsibly means the United States can speed up its transition to a greener, emissions-free electricity grid powered by renewable sources such as hydropower.