Tidal Energy Article
Alternative Energy: Hydroelectric Power
This is a clean form of energy that is widely used in Canada and other European countries. The United States is behind the times, as approximately 10 percent of our energy needs are from hydroelectric and both Canada and Europe use about 60 per cent of hydroelectric energy. It may prove to be a great alternative if we are truly considering a green future.
Hydroelectric energy comes from running water. Similar to other power plants, turbines are used to move the water. A high dam is needed and the water flows to the turbine and spins it. The energy then travels to a generator and a current goes to a transformer and is then turned into electricity.
It is dependent on the cycle of water including how the water evaporates, the precipitation level and the flow to gravity. Canada is way ahead of us in this area because they have abundant resources for water and the type of geography necessary to produce this form of energy.
They are many, many, many advantages to hydroelectric power. It does not pollute the environment and it requires very little maintenance. Water is stored in reservoirs and is easily accessible if there is a high demand. It is more reliable and sustainable than other forms of energy.
However, there are other issues to consider when discussing hydroelectric power. The dams are costly to build and they disrupt wildlife. If there is wildlife living in the area where the dam is being built then their home will be destroyed. However, any form of energy will most likely affect the environment in some form or fashion. Another issue to consider is where the dam is being built. If it is near a residential area, there is a potential for accidents, and it certainly will impact the people living in the area. However, any changes or sources of power considered such as water, nuclear, solar with affect people and impact the environment. Hydroelectric power is said to be the cleanest form of energy.
It has been around forever and is seen as a viable option for future use in the United States. Some countries use it exclusively.
There have been some casualties from past dams that were flooded and caused damage to the environment. In Brazil, a dam was built in a rain forest area and it had nor been properly cleared. The plants and trees were essentially flooded with water and rotted. This greatly reduced the amount of oxygen in the water killing trees and fish. They are still working on correcting and restring the environment after this accident. A similar incident happened in Quebec, Canada. The stones and soil contain mercury which is dangerous in large amounts. The area was flooded and wildlife and the people living there were poisoned with mercury.
