Question

How is hydropower harnessed?

Answer 1

Hydropower:

1. In simple words, hydropower is the energy generated by the falling of water from a height.
2. In a dam, water is collected in a reservoir which increases the potential energy of the water.
3. Upon releasing the stored water, the potential energy gets converted into kinetic energy.
4. The water is made to fall upon a turbine which rotates.
5. This kinetic energy possessed by the water is converted into electrical energy as the turbine rotates.
6. Water is the most widely used form of renewable energy accounting for 3% of the world’s total energy consumption.
7. The cost of hydroelectricity is relatively low, giving it a competitive edge as a source of energy.
8. The average cost of electricity for a large hydropower plant is very less.
9. Energy production is dependent on the amount of water that is let out since this can be controlled; hydropower plants have the advantage of being flexible.
10. The output can be controlled as required by the need.