Hydropower uses the kinetic energy from the downstream flow of water to create both electrical and mechanical power. Both turbines and generators convert this energy into electricity, which can be delivered to homes and business alike. In fact, hydroelectric power currently generates about 10% of the nation’s energy.
Today, three different types of hydropower plants are used to produce electricity: impoundment, diversion and pumped storage plants. Some hydropower plants use dam structures, while others do not.
Hydropower plants come in a range of sizes. Large hydropower plants have the capacity to generate enough electricity to sell to utility companies and power large communities. Even a small or micro-hydroelectric power system can produce enough electricity for a home, farm, or ranch. Unfortunately, only a small percent of the dams in the U.S. are currently used for electricity production. If hydroelectric power projects were added to dams, where it is feasible, the U.S. could enlarge its hydropower capacity by a significant amount, about 17,000 MW.
While creating electricity is the primary object of utilizing hydropower, many other benefits arise from its use. Hydropower facilities can create conservation lands, support marine habitats, improve the quality of water and provide multiple recreational opportunities. The hydropower industry works hard to ensure that rivers, waterways and wildlife are all protected while facilities operate. Additionally, a good number of hydropower projects also store large amounts of water, which can be used by farmers for irrigation and can even protect against flooding by collecting excess water flow.
Sources: U.S. Department of Energy (Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy) and National Hydropower Association