Hydropower plants get their energy from falling water to generate electricity. A generator then converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy. Hydroplants range in size from "micro-hydros" that power only a few homes to giant dams that provide electricity for millions of people. A hydroelectric dam is one of the major components of a hydroelectric facility. A dam is a large, man-made structure built to contain some body of water. In addition to construction for the purpose of producing hydroelectric power, dams are created to control river flow and regulate flooding. Hydropower is fueled by water, so it's a clean fuel source, meaning it won't pollute the air like power plants that burn fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas. Hydroelectric power is a domestic source of energy, allowing each state to produce their own energy without being reliant on international fuel sources. However, it can also cause environmental and social threats, such as damaged wildlife habitat, harmed water quality, obstructed fish migration, and diminished recreational benefits of rivers.
Hydropower plants get their energy from falling water to generate electricity. A generator then converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy. Hydroplanes range in size from "micro-hydro's" that power only a few homes to giant dams that provide electricity for millions of people. A hydroelectric dam is one of the major components of a hydroelectric facility.
