How does this Technology Work?
Hydro power hydroelectice dams use a reservoir to create potential evergy from the dammed water. This water flows through an intake and into a large pipe called a penstock. This boosts the power generation capabilities of the dam. The penstock feeds water into a turbine which powers a generator. During low electricity usage the turbines will power pumps to fill these tanks. Then during the peak electricity demand the tanks will be dumped onto the turbines to increase their production potential.
What can this Type of Energy be Used for?
It can be used to start up other power plants most of which require energy for lights, electronic monitering equipment, etc.
What are the Positive Aspects?
-Dams can store rain water or water directly from the river itself. Then, in case of a Drought, the dam will still have a relatively constant supply of water.
-Producing Power.
-Produce inexpensive (after completion) and clean power.
-Producing Power.
-Produce inexpensive (after completion) and clean power.
What are the Negative Aspects?
-Studies show that the plant decay caused downstream of major dams produces as many greenhouse gasses as more conventional methods of producing electricity.
-Disrupts natural seasonal changes in he river, and ecosystems can be destroyed.
-Dams can break in a massive flash flood.
-Disrupts natural seasonal changes in he river, and ecosystems can be destroyed.
-Dams can break in a massive flash flood.
What Percentage of the US Energy Comes from this Technology?
It generates 24 percent of the world's electricity and 12 percent of the United States.
