What Is Hydroelectric Power?

Hydroelectric power harnesses the energy of flowing water to generate electricity.

It involves the conversion of water's kinetic energy into electrical power through
turbines connected to generators, providing a renewable and efficient source of
energy.
 Procedure
1. Water Intake: A dam or diversion structure is built to create a reservoir, allowing water to be
stored. Intake structures control the flow of water into the power plant.
2. Penstock: The water is directed through a large pipe called a penstock, which channels the flow
towards the turbines.
3. Turbines: The force of the flowing water causes the turbines to spin. Turbines are connected to
generators.
4. Generators: The spinning turbines turn the generators, converting the mechanical energy into
electrical energy through electromagnetic induction.
5. Transformer: The generated electricity is passed through transformers to increase voltage for
efficient long-distance transmission.
6. Transmission Lines: High-voltage transmission lines carry the electricity from the hydroelectric
power plant to homes, businesses, and industries.
7. Tailrace: The water that passes through the turbines is released back into the river or water
Schematic Diagram
 Energy Produced

1. Global Percentage: Hydroelectric power contributes approximately 16% of the

world's total electricity production.
2. Installed Capacity: The total installed capacity of hydroelectric power plants
worldwide was around 1,300 gigawatts (GW). This capacity represents the
maximum potential output if all plants were operating at full capacity
simultaneously.
3. Renewable Energy Share: Hydroelectric power is a key component of
renewable energy, providing a stable and consistent source of electricity
without greenhouse gas emissions.
4. The most
 Efficiency

1. Turbine Efficiency: Modern hydroelectric turbines can achieve efficiencies of 90%

or higher. The turbine is a critical component that converts the kinetic energy of
flowing water into mechanical energy.
2. System Efficiency: The overall efficiency of a hydroelectric power plant is the
product of various efficiencies along the energy conversion chain, including the
turbine, generator, and transmission system. Well-designed and well-maintained
hydroelectric plants can have overall efficiencies exceeding 80%.
3. Environmental Considerations: Hydropower is considered a clean and renewable
energy source, but environmental considerations such as fish migration patterns
and habitat disruption can influence the design and efficiency of hydroelectric
projects.