Renewable Resources

Hydroelectric Power: Analysis, Benefits, and Drawbacks
Student’s NameInstitutional Affiliation
Abstract
Hydroelectric power plants generate electricity by harnessing the kinetic energy of moving water and converting it to electrical energy. Hydroelectric energy is renewable since the sun powers the hydrologic cycle that in turn causes surface runoff. The runoff, when collected in a dam or reservoir, contains kinetic energy that turns turbines, which in turn produce electricity. Hydroelectric energy is efficient because the hydropower plant converts 90% of the total available energy into electricity contrary to fossil fuel plants that only convert 50%. Hydroelectric energy is also inexpensive since it uses water, a natural resource. However, the dams constructed as water reservoirs cause flooding in the downstream areas. They also prevent fish from moving upstream to spawn. The amount of electrical energy (in megawatts) generated by a hydropower plant depends on the distance through which the water flows and the flow rate. This paper examines the harnessing of hydroelectric energy as well as its benefits and drawbacks.
Hydroelectric Power: Analysis, Benefits, and Drawbacks
According to DIBR (2005), hydroelectric power is renewable energy harnessed from moving water. Before the generator can produce electric energy in a hydropower station, solar energy powers the hydrologic cycle that in turn leads to surface runoff. The runoff from melting snow or rain eventually rea…