How it Works
Hydroelectric power is generated by fast-flowing, strong current sources of water. Water turbines capture the kinetic energy found in waterfalls, waves, and all types of fast moving water. There are two main types of turbines, hydroelectric power plants constructed near freshwater or vertical structures called tidal fences in oceans.
The Pros and Cons
PROS:
Renewable- Since their isn't a limited supply of water, the water cycle makes it so there will always be available, therefore making hydroelectric power renewable Low Emissions- No significant amount of air pollution or carbon emissions are produced Water>Wind- Water creates more energy than wind because it is denser than air so turbines capture more energy from water. |
CONS:
Costly- Turbines are complex machines that cost a lot to make with an average cost between $1500 and $10000. Destroys Natural Habitats- Creating Turbines can change the natural path of a waterway, ultimately harming many organisms' habitats. |
Interesting Facts
Hydroelectric power is the most commonly used renewable energy source, lead by the United States, mostly due to its high level of technology and plentiful supply of rivers. Canada, Brazil, and China also produce a large amount of hydroelectricity.The first Edison hydroelectric power station, the Vulcan Street Plant, began operating September 30, 1882, in Appleton, Wisconsin, with an output of about 12.5 kilowatts. The largest hydroelectric plant is La Grande in Quebec , Canada
Works Cited
- Piggot, Hugh. “ASK THE EXPERTS: Microhydro Cost.” Wind Energy Physics | Home Power Magazine, 2013, www.homepower.com/articles/microhydro-power/design-installation/ask-experts-microhydro-cost.
- https://www.google.com/search?ei=cYDzWpbSJcT25gLw0qPQDA&q=oldest+hydroelectric+plant&oq=oldest+hydro&gs_l=psy-ab.1.1.0l8.27603.30100.0.32611.13.10.0.3.3.0.96.623.8.9.0....0...1c.1.64.psy-ab..1.12.723.6..35i39k1j0i131k1j0i67k1j0i20i264k1j0i131i46k1j46i131k1j0i20i263k1.94.zdn8pTXF9iE
- http://www.gerrardhydraulics.com.au/news/14-little-known-facts-hydraulics/
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