HYDRO ENERGY OVERVIEW

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.