Why hydroelectric power is good

That proven reliability benefits the national electric grid in a number of ways, from supporting other renewable energy sources to stabilizing the network to storing electricity for later use. Hydropower is not only a low cost source of renewable electricity, it is among the most cost effective energy sources across the board. And since hydro taps the self-renewing power of our waterways, electricity from hydro is not subject to unpredictable price swings in the markets for energy commodities.

Using hydropower — our leading source of renewable energy —avoids the emission of approx. Hydropower facilities often do more than produce electricity, also providing vital benefits such as flood control, navigation, irrigation, water supply and a range of recreational opportunities.

Americans view hydropower as a clean, reliable and renewable resource, and support hydro-specific initiatives for tax credits, federal reinvestment in facility upgrades, and federal investment in research and development.

Twitter Channel. Freshwater withdrawals were The estimates put total withdrawals at the lowest level since before Skip to main content. Search Search. Water Science School. Hydroelectric Power: Advantages of Production and Usage.

Water Use Information by Topic Learn more. Surface Water Information by Topic Learn more. Science Center Objects Overview Related Science Publications Multimedia Nothing is perfect on Earth, and that includes the production of electricity using flowing water.

Hydroelectricity is a renewable energy source. Hydroelectricity makes it feasible to utilize other renewable sources. Hydroelectricity promotes guaranteed energy and price stability. Hydroelectricity contributes to the storage of drinking water. Hydroelectricity helps fight climate changes. Hydroelectricity improves the air we breathe.

Hydroelectricity offers a significant contribution to development. Hydroelectricity means clean and cheap energy for today and for tomorrow. Hydroelectricity is a fundamental instrument for sustainable development.

Sources and more information Itaipu Binacional. Below are other science topics associated with hydroelectric power water use. Date published: August 30, Filter Total Items: 3. Year Select Year Apply Filter. Date published: June 8, Date published: June 6, Attribution: Water Resources. Below are publications related to hydroelectric power water use. Wind energy pros and cons Environmental impacts of wind energy. Geothermal energy.

Geothermal energy pros and cons Environmental impacts of geothermal energy. Hydropower pros and cons Environmental impacts of hydropower. Biomass pros and cons Environmental impacts of biomass. Nuclear energy. Nuclear energy pros and cons Environmental impacts of nuclear energy. Learn About Solar. Find out what solar costs in your area in Enter your zip code. Renewable energy Hydropower Hydropower pros and cons. Top pros and cons of hydropower Hydropower has been the most widely-used renewable energy source of electricity for many years, and as with any energy choice, it comes with various advantages and disadvantages.

Here are a few top ones to keep in mind: Pros and cons of hydropower Pros of hydropower Cons of hydropower Renewable energy source Some adverse environmental impact Pairs well with other renewables Expensive up-front Can meet peak electricity demand Lack of available reservoirs On the pros side, hydropower is a clean and renewable energy source that pairs well with other renewable energy technologies, and in some cases can be used to meet peak electricity demand.

Advantages of hydropower. Hydropower pairs well with other renewables. Certain hydroelectric plant designs meet peak demand. Disadvantages of hydropower. Hydropower plants can adversely affect surrounding environments.