All About Hydroelectricity

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In a similar way that a wind turbine uses the kinetic energy in wind to produce electrical energy, people can also use the energy in moving water to produce electrical energy. Electricity produced using moving water is called hydroelectricity, or hydropower.

Hydroelectricity uses the kinetic energy in flowing rivers and streams. The water is often held in large dams which allow people to control the flow of water.

When the water in a dam is released, it pushes past generators that convert kinetic energy into electricity. The electricity travels along power lines to power stations where it is sent along an electrical grid to our homes and cities.

A few of the advantages of hydroelectricity are that it is renewable, it provides consistent power, and like solar energy and wind turbines, it does not release any pollutants into the air.

The disadvantages of hydroelectricity are that it requires a lot of water. The water is either dammed up or diverted from its natural course. This can affect the organisms that rely on water upstream and in. surrounding areas.

Check out our related videos on the advantages and disadvantages of other electricity production methods.