Background and Evolution
Hydropower is the oldest and largest of all renewable energy sources. The concept of harnessing the power of moving water dates back to ancient times, with evidence of dammed irrigation systems and turbines found in ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome.
Over the course of centuries, hydropower continued to evolve with the invention of the mechanical turbine and the development of hydroelectric power plants (HPPs) by the mid-19th century. Today, HPPs are a central part of the global electrical grid, providing a vast majority of the world’s renewable electricity.
Technical Advantages and Benefits
Hydropower has three main advantages that make it an ideal source of clean energy:
- Zero Greenhouse Emissions
- Higher Capacity Factors
- Sustainability and Security
Unlike fossil fuels and other traditional energy sources, hydropower does not emit greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, methane or nitrous oxide, to the atmosphere, making it a climate-friendly option
Hydropower plants operate at a consistent capacity of around 30-80%, compared to solar or wind power systems, which typically operate in the 10-35% range
Renewable energy technologies like solar and wind still rely heavily on fossil fuel-based generation for backup energy, which can lead to a patchwork of interconnections in the grid
Hydropower, being a dispatchable source of energy, makes it easy to integrate within the grid, ensuring overall grid security and stability[1]
Infrastructure and Diversification Efforts
Hydropower infrastructure covers a broad range of equipment and technology, including:
- Rivers and Riversides: The primary setting for hydroelectric power is rivers with a significant hydrological capacity
- Turbines, Generators, and Electromagnets: Powerful machines capable of harnessing the energy released by impounded water
- Floodgates, Pumps, and Valves: Critical hydraulic components essential for controlling dam operations, water flow regulation, and water storage
[1]Source : International Energy Agency (2019)
For instance, the Hoover Dam, situated on the Arizona-Nevada border
- Renewable Energy Integration Projects
Initiatives like the Portuguese Government’s plan to renovate old hydropower plants in the country has led to increased energy autonomy and
emission reduction
