Hydroelectric Power: A Clean Energy Source

Hydroelectric energy is generated by flowing water that turns a turbine. This movement creates a current, and this current is converted into energy using turbines and generators.

Hydroelectric Energy in Bizkaia

In Bizkaia, Alstom Hydro in Bilbao is part of the largest global industrial and technology group related to hydroelectric energy, boasting over 100 years of experience.

How Hydroelectric Energy Works

This energy works because water accumulates in one place, then passes through a turbine. The turbine moves, converting the water's movement into energy.

Historical Evolution of Hydroelectric Power

In the past, a wooden wheel was used in the middle of a river. It had a chain of wood that spun over the river, taking water to generate electricity. Nowadays, a system is used where huge power generators are placed inside dams.

Environmental Impact of Hydroelectric Power

Using water as a source of energy is generally a safe environmental choice. However, it's not perfect. Hydroelectric power plants require a dam and a reservoir. These man-made structures may be obstacles for fish trying to swim upstream. Some dams, including the Bonneville Dam, have installed fish ladders to help fish migrate. Fish ladders are a series of wide steps built on the side of the river and dam. The ladder allows fish to slowly swim upstream instead of being totally blocked by the dam.

Dams flood riverbanks, destroying wetland habitat for thousands of organisms. Aquatic birds such as cranes and ducks are often at risk, as well as plants that depend on the marshy habitat of a riverbank. Operating the power plant may also raise the temperature of the water in the reservoir. Plants and animals near the dam have to adjust to this change or migrate elsewhere.

Community Impact

On the other hand, the impact on the community is that they only employ people to build the dam. The energy is very cheap, and this can entice people to move to the town. Finally, water can be used whenever there is a drought.

Dangers of Hydroelectric Energy

This energy has its dangers. It can have negative environmental and social consequences, for example, blocking rivers with dams and damaging aquatic and riparian habitats. It could destroy plantations and houses that are nearby.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydroelectric Power

Advantages:

• Hydropower is fueled by water, so it is a clean fuel source, meaning it won't pollute the air like power plants that burn fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas.
• The energy generated through hydropower relies on the water cycle, which is driven by the sun, making it a renewable power source. This makes it a more reliable and affordable source than fossil fuels, which are rapidly being depleted.

Disadvantages:

• Emission of methane and carbon dioxide: Releases a large amount of carbon dioxide and methane as plants and trees decompose.
• Disturbance of habitat: The formation of large dams destroys the living beings around them.
• Installation costs: Manufacturing and building a dam and installing the turbines is very costly, and its construction requires a lot of human labor.

Other Important Facts

• Hydroelectric energy is the oldest power source on this planet.
• Some people think that hydroelectric power is just about dams.
• The largest river used for hydroelectric power is the Colorado River.

Conclusion

In my opinion, I don't recommend this energy because it alters the environment, damages living things, and is profitable only to wealthy people.