Hydroelectric Energy: The Benefits
One of the best sources of renewable, green, energy is hydroelectric energy. In fact, about 7% of the power consumption in the US is generated using hydroelectric energy. This type of energy is generated by harnessing the gravitational force of falling water. In many ways, this is not unlike the process that is used in wind turbines (using wind energy).
One of the major ways of utilizing hydroelectric energy is through dams. By damming up water flow behind a large concrete wall, it is possible to generate an enormous amount of potential energy. Once the water is released, it flows through a turbine and an electric current is created. This electric current can be used to power both businesses and homes.
This is a very simple and efficient way of creating energy. Furthermore, there are several advantages. First, it does not require using fossil fuels. Second, since water is a natural resource, this is method is environmentally friendly, and as a result, does not pollute our planet and also reduces green house gasses. And best of all, this energy comes is potentially unlimited amounts, since the water sources are constantly being regenerated through rainfall.
Other advantages of this energy are that water is also a generally an available resource in many countries and eliminates the cost of the fuel used for this power source. Once hydroelectric power plants are built on waterways they are relatively inexpensive to operate. As the technology continues to mature, it is likely that power resource will become even more efficient and widespread.
No matter where the energy comes from: sun, wind, water, fuel or coal, we clearly are dependent on it, as it is used in a great variety of ways. Thus, using water to obtain electricity is one of the best alternatives for the reasons we mentioned. Not only it can be used to power home appliances and factories, but it could also be used to store energy which is later reused in vehicles. In conclusion: it is expected that as this technology continues to mature, it will become cheaper and more widespread.
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