Activity 3.2.3 – Alternative Energy – Hydroelectric Energy

    Alternative energy, or renewable energy, refers to sources of energy that are considered environmentally friendly and sustainable because they have a significantly lower impact on the environment compared to traditional fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. Renewable energy sources can be easily replenished. Some of these sources include solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass. Alternative sources have a lot of benefits including a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, better air and water quality, reduced carbon footprint, and long-term sustainability.  

    Hydroelectric energy, often referred to as hydropower, is a well-established and widely used renewable energy source that harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity. According to energy.gov, “all but two states (Delaware and Mississippi) use hydropower for electricity, some more than others. For example, in 2020 about 66% of the state of Washington’s electricity came from hydropower.” (Hydropower Basics, n.d.). Many states use hydropower because of its many benefits. First, it is clean and renewable. It produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions, making it a clean and renewable energy source. Unlike fossil fuels, it does not release harmful pollutants that contribute to air pollution, acid rain, or global warming. Second, it is a reliable and consistent source of energy. Water flow in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs is usually stable and plentiful. Lastly, during periods of low electricity demand, excess power can be used to pump water uphill into the reservoir, effectively storing energy for later use. 

    With its advantages, also come disadvantages. First, the construction of large dams and reservoirs can have significant environmental consequences. They can disrupt river ecosystems and displace wildlife. Second, building a hydropower facility, especially a large dam, can be extremely expensive and time-consuming. Lastly, maintaining a hydropower plant can be very difficult. Over time, reservoirs can accumulate sediment, which reduces their storage capacity and can damage turbines. 

    There are many limitations to hydropower as well. For example, hydroelectric power is dependent on the availability of suitable water resources. Many regions lack the necessary rivers or reservoirs to support hydropower projects. Costs and extensive infrastructure requirements for large dams and reservoirs can also be prohibitive, limiting the adoption of hydropower, especially in developing regions. Another limitation is precipitation. If some areas are without precipitation for an extended period of time, droughts can occur and cause limitations for hydropower.  

    In conclusion, hydroelectric energy offers several advantages, including being clean and renewable, reliable, energy storage capabilities. However, it also comes with environmental drawbacks such as high costs, geographic limitations, and dependence on climate conditions. It is a great renewable energy source to use as an alternative to nonrenewable fossil fuels.


Resources:

Hydropower Basics. (n.d.). Energy.gov. https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/hydropower-basics 


Mutiti, S., Mutiti, C., Manoylov, K., VandeVoort, A., & Bennett, D. (2018). Introduction to environmental science (3rd ed.). Biological Science Open Textbooks. University System of Georgia.

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