7 Benefits Of Hydropower

Our planet depends on power in order to function. Each day, we rely on countless electronic devices that make modern society possible.

And these devices need to receive electricity from somewhere. Most electricity still comes from the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal or petroleum. We all know how harmful it is to harvest and burn these resources. Plus, they are nonrenewable and bound to run out soon.

The benefits of hydropower, on the other hand, are numerous. Hydropower relies on the natural flow of water to produce electricity from renewable, clean energy sources. 

So what is hydropower, and what are the hydropower advantages you need to be aware of? Keep reading to find out now. 

1. Clean Energy

Electricity produced via hydropower is clean. There is no burning of fossil fuels and little to no pollution produced, as this power source comes from water.

2. Locally Powered

Fossil fuels can only be sourced from certain locations and might not be available in every state or region. Hydroelectric power, on the other hand, can exist in every state, since rivers are abundant. This means energy can be produced locally, supporting a local economy, and not having to purchase fuel from abroad.

3. Renewable Energy Source

One of the biggest water energy benefits is the fact that it is renewable. The electricity produced originates from the water cycle, which relies on the sun and the natural movements of water on the planet. Since the sun and water cycle aren’t going anywhere, this makes hydroelectric power totally renewable.

4. Immediate Backup Power

Since not all states rely on hydroelectric power completely, it can be used as an immediate backup source of electricity. The power produced from a hydroelectric dam can send power to the grid at a moment’s notice.

5. Flood Control

Many rivers can quickly flood during the rainy seasons, causing much damage to the surrounding areas. A hydroelectric dam also acts as an effective method of flood control. 

6. Water Supply

The reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam can act as a local water source. With so much water stored in one place, it’s easy to access and distribute this water when necessary, such as in the case of drought or emergency.

As with any water that is used in a home or business, you’ll want to treat it properly in order to make it safe to use, healthy to drink, and less harmful to your plumbing and irrigation. Since many facilities receive hard water, you’ll need to use a water softener. Check out this review to find a water softener that’s right for you.

7. Recreation Opportunities

Lastly, hydroelectric dams also produce large reservoirs. To most people, this is essentially a lake where they can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, paddling, and other recreational activities.

Enjoying the Benefits of Hydropower

While the benefits of hydropower are clear, it’s not a perfect power source. It dramatically affects the physical environment around it, as a river needs to be dammed, halting the natural flow of water and wildlife.

However, with a nation experiencing an energy crisis and the need for clean energy increases, we need to take every chance we get to produce clean energy.

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