Hydro power is the workhorse of renewable energy, currently providing
more than ten percent of the electricity generated in the world. The
issues with hydropower are different — and often more complex — than
with wind and solar energy. While all three depend on the weather for
their fuel source, hydropower generation has the advantage that the
fuel (water) can typically be stored in reservoirs. However, the water
in these reservoirs is often used for competing purposes beyond energy
generation, including irrigation, flood control, transportation, and
consumption. Therefore, owners and operators of hydropower projects
have to evaluate decisions within the conflicting objectives of power
generation, safety, water quality and habitat. Building the best
projects and operating them optimally is critical.