The Environment Magazine

Ferrero Zhang
Iron Horse Middle School, San Ramon, CA 94582

As we strip raw materials from our planet and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, the earth is slowly but surely deteriorating. Many parts of the world have been searching for ways to include renewable energy in our daily lives. Although it’s not a common technique, hydroelectric power is actually a fantastic way to renew energy.

Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source that uses the kinetic energy of a constant and consistent river flow to generate electricity. It mostly depends on a river’s natural flow. In other words, the flow pattern must be consistent and endless to ensure that the electricity isn’t eliminated in the process. 

Hydroelectric power is used through a diversion structure such as a dam. Inside the structure, there is a turbine or generator that converts the kinetic energy of the river’s flow into usable electricity. Then, the electricity is transferred into an electrical grid which can be used to power businesses, industries, or homes. Globally, hydroelectricity accounts for around 16% of all electricity that is used. 

Hydroelectric power is captured through a diversion structure, which most of the time is a dam. There is a pipe linking the outside of the structure to the inside. On the interior of the diversion structure, there is a turbine that is connected to a metal shaft. The shaft is then attached to a power grid. 

The dam is built in a river or stream with a constant flow of water, preferably somewhere elevated. This requirement must be ensured since the diversion structure will alter the water’s natural flow. As the water from the river is pushed through the pipe and into the structure, the liquid propels itself against the turbine, causing it to turn. As the turbine turns faster and faster, the metal shaft turns into a conductor, transferring the flow of water into kinetic energy. Lastly, the kinetic energy is transported to the power grid, allowing it to power homes and industries. The power produced can change depending on the size of the diversion structure, the location, and the design. 

Hydroelectric power is a great energy source for many reasons. First of all, it is completely renewable, meaning that the source will never run out unless the river water stops flowing. At the same time, hydroelectric power doesn’t release emissions, given that it is a renewable energy source. Another advantage of hydropower is that it is by far the most reliable renewable energy source. Unlike the wind or sun, river water is consistent and flows 24/7. 

Figure 1.  The structure of a hydroelectric diversion structure (Source:  http://www.researchgate.net) 

Even though hydroelectric power may sound like an awesome renewable energy source, there are a few downsides. For example, the diversion structure alters the river’s natural flow, which may lead to flooding that could destroy farmland and natural habitats. Also, fish and other small aquatic animals can get stuck inside the diversion structure. 

Despite these complications, hydropower is a great renewable energy source, accounting for 16% of electricity produced. Although hydroelectric power isn’t a common renewable energy source, it comes with less complication and is far more reliable than other renewable energy sources.

References

Giaquinto, Robert. “Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydroelectric Energy.” GreenGeeks, http://www.greengeeks.com/blog/hydroelectric-energy/.

Department of Energy. “How Hydropower works.”  Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, http://www.energy.gov/eere/water/how-hydropower-works.

Department of Energy. “Hydropower Basics.” Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, http://www.energy.gov/eere/water/hydropower-basics.